Human-Wildlife Coexistence in Tanzania: The Impact of Our Frontline Rangers
In Northern Tanzania, the quest for human-wildlife coexistence is an ongoing challenge, especially in communities near protected areas where people, domestic animals, and wildlife share the same precious resources. As wildlife roams beyond park boundaries in search of food and water, tensions rise, and local livelihoods are put at risk. This often leads to retaliatory measures against carnivores like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, endangering not only the wildlife but also the very communities whose survival is intertwined with nature.
What is the role of human-wildlife coexistence officers?
The African People & Wildlife (APW)-supported network of Human-Wildlife Coexistence Officers, including Warriors for Wildlife and Community Game Scouts, plays a crucial role in mitigating these conflicts. These officers work on the front lines, educating local communities about herding safety, sharing strategics for living with big cats and elephants, helping search for lost livestock, and reporting conflict incidents.
Their efforts are supported by advanced technology, such as the ArcGIS Survey123 mobile app, which allows them to submit detailed reports on over 6,100 conflict incidents since 2013. This data not only helps us respond more effectively but also contributes to broader research on human-wildlife coexistence.
How you can help today
Partners and supporters like you sustain these vital programs. Your donation contributes to the stipends, training, and equipment that keep our coexistence officers as effective guardians of Tanzania's wildlife and rural livelihoods. Make a gift and see how you make a difference in our infographic below!
You can also download, print, and digitally share our human-wildlife coexistence officer infographic to spread the word in celebration of wildlife rangers.
Human-wildlife coexistence and conflict resources
How can animals coexist with people? Learn more about APW's holistic approach and our human-wildlife conflict programs, as well as stories that share our recent successes in Tanzania.