Discussion Paper No. 138 of 2012 on A Review of Various Options for Alleviating Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Kenya.

Abstract

Human wildlife conflict is a severe and growing problem in today’s world. Unlike other environmental issues, it involves impoverishment of human communities. It is also causing population declines and may lead to extinction of some wildlife. This study focuses on assessing the levels and types of Human Wildlife Conflict (HWC) in Kenya. Kenya’s wildlife is a controversial, yet beneficial renewable natural resource. Human wildlife conflict data from Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) was used to analyze the type and trends of HWC. To reduce these conflicts, there is need to have good resolution strategies that aim at changing people altitudes. This can be done through education and by ensuring that affected communities benefit from proper wildlife management. Harmonization of both wildlife management and human development goals can help resolve the conflict since it will involve bringing in the two groups together, to come up with a sustainable solution for wildlife and the people. Clear policies regarding wildlife management, compensation and land use can play a vital role in effecting more positive outcomes for HWC.