Status of Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Mpanga/Kipengere Game Reserve, Tanzania

摘要

This study assessed the status of Human Wildlife Conflicts (HWC's) in Mpanga/Kipengere Game Reserve. The study took place in Igomelo, Igando, and Luduga villages which are administratively in Wanging'ombe and Mbarali Districts. Data were collected by using questionnaire survey, key informants interviews, archive information, and physical site visits. A total of 100 respondents were involved in this study. Results indicated that respondents perceived crop raiding, boundary disputes, and restricted access to reserve resources as the major HWC's in the study area which led to reduced household income and food insecurity. Major mitigation measures used by local people to mitigate the problem included crop guarding, digging trenches, and informing game reserve officials. For the MKGR to be effective in improving the livelihood of the local people and enhancing conservation, the study suggested the preparation of compensation schemes for destructions made by wildlife, benefits sharing from wildlife-related activities, and boundary demarcation.