In Gabon -as around the world-, elephants are a keystone and flagship species for wildlife conservation. Their protection has attracted significant support from developed countries as well as raised awareness for the conservation of other species. However, elephant populations also represent a threat to peoples’ livelihood living alongside them. As a consequence, crop loss due to foraging elephants is currently one of the most important issues leading to conservation conflicts in areas where wild elephants interact with people.

 

An integrated approach to mitigating conflicts between conservation interests and local people’s needs must recognise the importance of understanding farmers’ perspectives and how alternative interventions affect their behaviour. A good understanding of the relations among stakeholders and their positions are also important to the design and success of mitigation strategies.

 

This project will use social network analyses, behavioural games and scenario analyses to: 1) identify stakeholders involved in the conflict; 2) understand the interactions within and between different parties; 3) determine how conflicting stakeholder groups and individuals make decisions when they face a dilemma in a given context; 4) understand why and when they are willing to cooperate to solve conservation conflicts; and 5) identify how policies affect their willingness to cooperate.

 

Where?

Across Gabon, with particular emphasis in Lope and Waka National Parks.

 

Which species?

African elephant (Loxodonta africana)

 

Who is involved:

Sarobidy Rakotonarivo (University of Stirling)

Rocío Pozo (University of Stirling)

Nils Bunnefeld (University of Stirling)

Jeremy Cusack (University of Stirling)

Brad Duthie (University of Stirling)

Kate Abernethy (University of Stirling & Agence Nationale des Parcs Nationaux Gabon)