We have been interviewing communities bordering PAs in KZN and find a high level of support for conservation and a high level of indigenous knowledge, even in very poor communities. Look at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park where communities now have electricity, I am starting to think that conservation will survive mainly when there is development on the boundaries of parks, because such people no longer have to depend on primary economic activities. Benefits beyond boundaries is a nice thought but cannot work when there are 200 people per km2 sitting on the fence!
Posted on: Sun, 26 Oct 2014 06:30:42 +0000