Public Participation and Human-Wildlife Conflict Management in Taita-Taveta County, Kenya

Abstract

Human-Wildlife Conflict poses a threat to both human development and wildlife conservation. Due to rapid human population growth and over-dependence on agriculture, encroachment on wildlife habitats has become a major challenge that fuels HWC. This study sought to find out the relationship between public participation and HWC management in Taita-Taveta County, Kenya. The study was anchored on stakeholders’ theory. The study was descriptive and was done in Taita Taveta county. A population of 15889 households within Mwatate Sub-County was targeted, with a Sample size of 375. A simple random sampling technique was used to determine the sample. Data were collected by the use of questionnaires featuring a combination of structured and unstructured questions. Regression analysis and Chi-square tests were conducted on the variables. The influence of public participation on Human-Wildlife Management had several proxies including knowledge of ongoing HWC management strategies. Regression analysis established that, as long as all other factors are held constant, per unit increase in the number of people who know the ongoing management strategies, the log odds of Human-Wildlife Management increase by 1.755. Knowledge of the ongoing management strategies, therefore, increases the chances of Human-Wildlife Management. The study concluded that the involvement of the victims can go a long way in promoting a positive attitude to HWC management and as well promote knowledge of ideal HWC mitigation measures. It is paramount to have all aggrieved parties front their aspirations and find a common ground in coming up with a resolution. In addition, participatory monitoring and evaluation should be deployed to ensure consensus on the results and outcomes of implemented strategies.