HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES IN GIMBO, KAFA, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Human-Wildlife Conflict is a continuous problem in the world, and has a significant impact on both human and wildlife populations. This study assessed Human-Wildlife Conflict in Gimbo Woreda, Kafa Zone, SNNPR Ethiopia. The purpose of the study was to identify the causes of Human-Wildlife Conflict and Wild animal compositions that cause the conflict, determine the extent of crop damage and to provide understanding on the causes and consequences of conflict in Gimbo Woreda. Three Kebeles with six sample sites were selected purposively to collect data on Human-Wildlife Conflict; Shorori, Ufudo and Cheraba Kebeles and Dola, Wash, Mahinda, Shembeko, Wofasha and Chew sites. Target populations comprised to Households and key informants were selected. The data were collected by questionnaire, one to one interview and observation by cross checking the crop loss using quadrats in selected farmlands and later analyzed using Statistical packages for Social Scientist (SPSS) and one way ANOVA. The result of the finding indicated that four primate species (Anubis baboon, Vervet monkey, Blue monkey and Black and white Colobus) and other wild animal compositions such as bushpig and porcupine were identified as pests, among which, Anubis baboon and Vervet monkey were known pest primates. Bushpig, porcupine and Rodents were identified as other pests. They were involved in crop raiding and mostly raid Maize (44.5%) followed by Bean (26.63%), Haricot bean (20.71%) and ‘Teff’ (9.76%) in all stages of development, respectively. However, Blue monkey and Black and white Colobus did not cause any conflict. About (85.8%) crop damage was caused by Anubis baboon and Vervet monkey while only (14.4%) damage was recorded by other pests. According to the result of the study (53.45%) of farmland covered by Maize, (21.83%) Bean, (15.05%) Haricot bean and (9.66%) ‘Teff’ correspondingly. When analyzed by one way ANOVA (F=288.898, P= 0.0001), there was statistically significant difference in the size of cultivated areas between four crops types. Furthermore, livestock killing, destruction of bee hives and human disturbances were some of the problems observed in the area. Deforestation for farmland, human population explosion, wild animal population growth and distance of farmland from the village were the identified causes of Human-Wildlife Conflict. Moreover, the study identified permanent guarding of crop, chasing, and trapping were various traditional methods used to prevent crop damage by crop raiders. Therefore, educating peoples to change their perception towards the wise use of forest, coexistence and wildlife management as well as organizing landless youngsters to create job opportunities are important.