Assessing the Human-Wildlife Conundrum in Zimbabwe: Implications for Social Work Practice
Charles Simbarashe Gozho 
& Millicent Katsande
Issue: Vol.5 No.7 Issue Article 5 pp.1111-1122
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.2024575| Published online 2nd July, 2024
© 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Human-wildlife conflict is a global crisis that has significantly impacted the local livelihoods of the rural populace of the world. This study aimed to examine the consequences and effects of human-wildlife conflict in Mbire District, Ward 1, Zimbabwe. This paper analysed a range of issues, including human-wildlife conflict, poaching, habitat loss, and socio-economic impacts, all of which intertwine to create a complex web of challenges with severe consequences for both humans and wildlife alike. The study was informed by the Musha/Nyumba and social conflict theories. The research used the qualitative method, where structured face-to-face interviews were conducted. Data was gathered from a sample of thirty participants and three key informants who were purposively selected to participate in the study. The study utilized a case-study research design. Data collected from the interviews were analysed to identify categories, emerging themes, and areas of agreement or disagreement in relation to the research questions. The study revealed that the consequences of human-wildlife conflicts include competition for resources, threats to human safety, crop and livestock damage, conservation concerns, and disruption of ecosystem balance. The paper concluded that human-wildlife conflict is a serious global threat to sustainable development, food security, wildlife conservation, and health, a concern that is negatively affecting people, wildlife, and the achievement of sustainable development goals. Evidence-based recommendations were provided to policymakers and stakeholders, including education initiatives, compensation and insurance schemes, land use planning, community engagement, and the development of early warning systems. This paper contributes to the ongoing debate on the economics of human-wildlife conflict and the contribution of wildlife to local livelihoods.
Keywords: Human-Wildlife, Conflict, Wildlife, Zimbabwe
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Charles Simbarashe Gozho holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Zimbabwe, a Master of Science degree in Child-Sensitive Policies from the Women’s University in Africa, and a Master of Social Work degree from Midlands State University. Currently, he is a Social Worker at SOS Children’s Villages.
Millicent Katsande is a dedicated and compassionate social worker who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University.
Gozho, Charles Simbarashe & Millicent Katsande. “Assessing the Human-Wildlife Conundrum in Zimbabwe: Implications for Social Work Practice,” E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences 5, no.7 (2024): 1111-1122. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.2024575
© 2024 The Author(s). Published and Maintained by Noyam Journals. This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
