Reducing Human-Wildlife Conflict in East Africa Using Participatory Action Research

Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) is one of the greatest threats to biodiversity conservation. It threatens the survival of endangered species, results in changes to ecosystems and reduces rates of biodiversity. HWC also poses serious consequences to human health and wellness, economic security and safety. Successful attempts at human-wildlife conflict mitigation balance the conservation of endangered species with the needs of local communities. Our project addresses the problem of HWC in the East African countries of Uganda and Kenya utilizing community based participatory methods that have high potential for generating effective and sustainable solutions to HWC, thus promoting the twin goals of biodiversity conservation and human well-being.

Building on our long-term research in Kibale National Park in Uganda and Samburu County, Kenya, we will design participatory community engagement processes that can be scaled up to reach many communities that experience HWC. Through these processes, communities will identify the causes of HWC and develop strategies to mitigate it. Possible interventions include land use changes such as alternative crops that are unpalatable to wildlife, trenches to prevent elephants accessing farm land, bee fences to deter wildlife, strengthening fencing of livestock enclosures to prevent access by predators and other ideas generated through the participatory process. By co-designing interventions with community members and key stakeholder organizations, we intend to increase the probability that the interventions will be appropriate, feasible, and self-sustaining.

Research Team

Krista Milich, WashU (Anthropology)
Carolyn K. Lesorogol, WashU(Brown School of Social Work)
Sharon Deem, Saint Louis Zoo