The utilisation of wildlife resources and the emanate conflicts: The case of Matetsi Woodlands, Hwange, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study was conducted in the Woodlands area of Matetsi Ward 1 of the Hwange District, Zimbabwe. The study assessed the role of the actors (the village households, Matetsi Environmental Conservation Committee, the Lands Office and the Parks and Wildlife Authority) in managing conflicts emanating from the utilization of the wildlife resources. The study involved 115 village households of which thirty percent were sampled. The establishment of the Matetsi Environmental Conservation Committee (MECC) is paramount as its ambit is to ensure the sustainable use and utilisation of Matetsi wildlife‘s resources. Dialogue and transparency is needed between the actors. The study unearthed the need for effective active participatory approaches in order to curtail any potential conflicts within Matetsi. One can posit that the community development structures in Matetsi need to be regulated through the legal mechanisms. This can enhance transparency and accountability in the management of community resources and development