CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2010
| Author | Addo-Boadu, Akua Mwendalubi |
|---|---|
| Title | Human-wildlife conflict management around Kakum Conservation Area, Ghana |
| Summary | Human-wildlife conflicts (HWC) around Kakum Conservation Area (KCA) negatively affect biodiversity conservation, farmers’ livelihoods, food security, tourism and rural development. This study assessed perceived effectiveness of conflict management measures at reducing incidence and impacts of HWC by interviewing local farmers. It showed that traditional techniques widely used in bordering communities are thought to significantly remedy farm raiding by non-charismatic species e.g. rodents, ungulates, primates and hogs. Alternative chilli-based techniques were thought to be effective against elephants, though levels of adoption of these methods were very low. Barriers identified to pepper technique use included financial constraints and insufficient knowledge about methods. This was despite extensive promotional efforts by the Wildlife Division and external donors. Legal concerns about the use of some traditional techniques were raised. Further, it was uncertain whether continued elimination of problem animals could be sustained over time. Though low-tech, the installation and maintenance of pepper fences was beyond the means of average farmers, and therefore deemed unsuitable for the local setting. However, since they were the desired mode of conflict management, the introduction of subsidies for fence inputs would boost adoption levels. Land-use planning, which is a long term solution to HWC, was absent from management practice. Since no provision for payment of compensation for animal damage was made under national legislation, none was offered by the Wildlife Division. However, enforcement of legislation protecting wildlife species was not rigorous. Additional research in HWC management was recommended. Increased budgetary support of Wildlife Division could also reduce future conflicts. |
| Supervisor | Anthony, Brandon Patrick |
| Department | Environment Sciences and Policy MSc |
| Full text | https://www.etd.ceu.edu/2010/addo-boadu_akua.pdf |
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