From conflicts to coexistence? Exploring the dynamics of human-wildlife conflicts in a mosaic forest-savanna transition area of Mbam et Djerem National Park, Central Cameroon

Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) has been recognized to significantly affect both human livelihoods and wildlife conservation around protected areas, including the Mbam et Djerem National Park (MDNP) in central Cameroon. However, little is known about the dynamics of these conflicts, including types of conflict, species involved, crops raided, animals attacked, financial losses incurred, and existing mitigation techniques. This hampers effective mitigation strategies and policy interventions. To help fill this knowledge gap, the study aims to explore the dynamics of HWC around the MDNP, including local mitigation strategies employed. Using a stratified sampling approach and a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 280 respondents across 10 villages and diverse vegetation types.

Overall, 98% of respondents experienced HWC, with crop raiding (98%) and domestic animal attacks (58%) being the primary conflict types. Cane rats, porcupines, and squirrels were recognized as the principal crop raiders, primarily targeting cassava (90%), maize (51%) and groundnuts (29%). Hawks (69%), civets (62%) and falcons (29%) predominantly attacked chicks. Conflicts were reported to occur year-round, peaking during the rainy season (88%). Financial losses due to crop raiding ranged from XAF 0 to 3,400,000 (mean = XAF 454,999 ± XAF 603,232.2), influenced by farm and raided plot sizes, while losses from domestic animal attacks ranged from XAF 5,000 to XAF 500,000 (mean = XAF 93,323 ± 105,285.3), affected by seasons and distance from the village to the park. Farm surveillance (59%), trapping (42%), and fencing (35%) were the major mitigation measures employed by respondents but were reported to be largely ineffective. The study emphasizes the need to support the local communities with alternative livelihood strategies, effective compensation systems, and improved mitigation measures to reduce human-wildlife conflict, enhance their well-being, and ensure their support for the protection of the MDNP.