Management of human–wildlife conflicts in conservation areas in Mozambique

the case of Maputo National Park

Abstract

This research aims to understand the process of managing human-wildlife conflicts in Maputo National Park, Mozambique, with a primary focus on conflict with elephants. To achieve this objective, bibliographic and documentary research methods, non-structured interviews, and observation were used. Data analysis and interpretation were based on triangulation. The results show a trend of increasing cases of human-wildlife conflict in Maputo province, and especially in Maputo National Park. This is also reflected in the unstable relationships between communities and park management. Factors such as disordered land occupation coupled with lack of lighting in homes, the trauma caused by war to elephants in particular, the increase in the number of elephants, and the search for food are considered to influence the conflicts. The results also indicate that the impacts generated by the conflicts are summarized in the destruction of crops, injury, and death of people. To resolve these conflicts, measures such as scaring away and culling problematic animals, fencing off agricultural fields, and enclosing the park are adopted. Therefore, the participation of all actors involved in human-wildlife conflicts is recommended as a way to find appropriate solutions.