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Community Support for Humane Conservation Grows in Kruger Region

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A new study by World Animal Protection, based on interviews with over 1550 households across 12 communities bordering Kruger National Park, reveals a majority of community members support humane, wildlife-friendly conservation. The research shows a growing desire to coexist with wildlife and benefit from its protection, contradicting the narrative that communities need trophy hunting. The findings align with national and international conservation goals, providing strong evidence for the effectiveness of wildlife-friendly economies.

Key Takeaways:

  • 96% of respondents agreed that "wildlife is part of our heritage, and we should protect it."
  • 94% of respondents agreed that wild animals "have the ability to feel pleasure and pain and should not be killed for commercial gain."
  • 85% supported a lion levy as an alternative income stream.
  • Over 80% supported each of ten wildlife-friendly livelihood options, including craft tourism, online tourism, and ecosystem service payments.
  • The study challenges long-standing assumptions about the need for trophy hunting and offers a blueprint for conservation that is both ethical and practical.
  • The findings have been shared with the South African Government to prioritize and promote wildlife-friendly activities as part of their vision for a more sustainable and ethical future.

Stories and Insights:

  • Dr. Angie Elwin, Head of Research at World Animal Protection, noted that the research sends a clear signal that when given a choice, communities favour a future where wildlife is protected and respected.
  • Dr. Herbert Ntuli, Lead Researcher, South Africa's Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, emphasized the far-reaching implications of the findings, challenging long-standing assumptions and offering a blueprint for conservation.

Statistics:

  • 1550 households across 12 communities bordering Kruger National Park were interviewed as part of the study.
  • 96% of respondents agreed that wildlife is part of their heritage and should be protected, while 94% acknowledged animal sentience.
  • 85% of respondents supported a lion levy as an alternative income stream, and over 80% supported each of ten wildlife-friendly livelihood options.
  • In 2023, 6,052 international hunters shot over 34,000 animals in South Africa, according to official statistics from the Professional Hunters' Association prepared for the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.

Sources:

  • World Animal Protection
  • South African Government
  • Professional Hunters' Association
  • Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment
  • Dr. Angie Elwin, Head of Research at World Animal Protection
  • Dr. Herbert Ntuli, Lead Researcher, South Africa's Council for Scientific and Industrial Research

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