Induced grazing land scarcity and disease risks in transfrontier conservation areas: Evidence from communities at the southern edge of Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe
2024
Musekiwa, Benjamin | Dzingirai, Vupenyu | Caron, Alexandre | Miguel, Eve | Guerbois, Chloé
Rural communities living in semi-arid transfrontier conservation areas often face being marginalised by central power, being food insecure due to limited access to natural resources and low agricultural production, as well as the negative impacts of human-wildlife co-existence. Amongst those drivers of poverty, shortage of grazing lands resulting from climate change, increase in wildlife/livestock densities and human population, have negatively impacted livestock production in rural communities. Consequently, individuals often seek and justify survival options. This sometimes involves accessing protected areas, albeit illegally. However, these protected areas are frequently replete with wildlife, some of which is the source of infectious diseases. The key issue is whether or not this situation increases exposure to zoonotic disease risks. This study aims to identify the factors that contribute to land scarcity and how these influence coping mechanisms related to local livestock production. Additionally, the study looks at the perceived and real impacts of cattle encroachment into protected areas. A case study of Zimbabwe's Southeast Lowveld unpacks these issues on the periphery of Gonarezhou National Park. The study employs ethnography, key informant interviews and participatory disease mapping. It confirms that land scarcity is a major issue for livestock owners living on the edge of protected areas. However, climate change is increasingly driving people into these areas. Consequently, zoonotic disease contraction is an increasing reality with the State's game cordon fences and increased security failing to stem the tide. This study suggests the provision of often expensive veterinary support to local farmers in protected areas as a viable option.
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