Why human-wildlife coexistence must be a national priority

COEXISTENCE between people and wildlife is not just a noble goal; it is a national priority for sustainable development and a critical element of wildlife conservation in Tanzania.

The country’s natural heritage and conservation achievements are lauded globally and play a vital role in the well-being of its citizens. A healthy, well-protected environment provides essential services—clean water, fertile soils, crop pollinators and tree cover—that are crucial for the livelihoods of Tanzanians.

These services also help build resilience against flooding, drought and other impacts of climate change.

However, recent years have seen an escalation in human wildlife conflicts, driven by factors such as blocked wildlife corridors, inadequate land-use planning, livestock intrusion into protected areas, climate change and persistent misconceptions in some communities.

Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) poses a significant conservation challenge, but the government has been proactive in addressing the issue, particularly in rural areas where elephants threaten crops. This challenge has historical roots and was managed by the Department of Wildlife until the establishment of the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) in 2016.

Speaking recently at a workshop organised by Journalists’ Environmental Association of Tanzania (JET) in Bagamoyo, Coast Region, TAWA Wildlife Conservation Officer Mr Isaac Chamba, said conflicts were relatively minor until 2018, when incidents surged, prompting the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism to develop the National Human-Wildlife Conflict Management Strategy (2020-2024). Launched on October 5, 2020, the strategy is implemented by TAWA in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) and the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI).

Mr Chamba outlined several strategic objectives, such as enhancing communitybased mitigation, establishing effective HWC response mechanisms, managing the human-wildlife interface and promoting the benefits of coexistence.

“We have launched awareness campaigns to highlight the ecological and economic advantages of wildlife, aiming to foster positive attitudes and encourage protective measures among farmers,” he explained.

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Additional objectives include increasing education on coexistence, monitoring HWC incidents, prioritising research and strengthening law enforcement. Improved law enforcement against poaching and illegal encroachment helps maintain healthy wildlife populations, which can indirectly reduce conflicts with human settlements.

TAWA has also collaborated with organisations such as German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and US Agency for International Development (USAID) to implement innovative solutions for reducing human-wildlife conflicts, reflecting a balanced approach to conservation that considers the concerns of rural communities.

Recently, during her visit to Tunduru District in the Ruvuma Region, President Samia Suluhu Hassan addressed the issue of human-wildlife conflict, particularly concerning crop destruction by elephants.

She directed TAWA to enhance efforts to promote coexistence, assuring residents that the government is taking steps to resolve the issue, including increasing ranger numbers and introducing drones for monitoring.

The president emphasised the importance of community engagement, stating, “It is crucial for the government to involve local communities in wildlife conservation efforts, which includes educating farmers about coexistence strategies and the significance of wildlife conservation.” She supported communitybased approaches that empower locals to manage wildlife resources sustainably, providing training and resources to help them protect their crops.

Additionally, the government has introduced compensation schemes for farmers affected by wildlife, aiming to alleviate financial burdens and encourage coexistence.

Innovative physical barriers, such as trenches and fences, are being promoted to deter elephants from entering agricultural land, protecting crops without harming wildlife. To better understand elephant behaviour and migration patterns, the government supports research initiatives that inform effective management strategies to minimise conflicts.

Tunduru North Member of Parliament Mr Hassan Zidadu Kungu pointed out the ongoing challenges of crop damage, conflicts between farmers and herders and pesticide availability. While he acknowledged government efforts, he stressed that more needs to be done.

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In a related directive, CCM Secretary General Ambassador Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi instructed the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana, to ensure conservation officers effectively manage wild animals, including elephants and hippopotamuses, that invade local farms. In response, TAWA has initiated actions in Ruvuma and Lindi regions, increasing the number of drones to address issues posed by dangerous wildlife. TAWA Commissioner for Conservation Mabula Nyanda announced that four DJI Mavic 3 drones will be deployed to monitor affected districts.

Looking ahead, TAWA plans to recruit 351 new rangers for the 2024/25 financial year, with 20 stationed in Songea to address ongoing wildlife challenges.

To enhance effectiveness in Tunduru, a permanent ranger station has been established in Chingulungulu and plans are underway to increase ranger numbers in key areas. While TAWA’s efforts are commendable, ongoing education for communities on how to protect themselves from wildlife is essential.

The collaboration between local government, conservation agencies and stakeholders remains crucial in implementing the Ministry’s strategy to mitigate humanwildlife conflicts.