A newly implemented elephant management strategy by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) is showing promising results, helping communities in Same and Mwanga districts in the Kilimanjaro Region protect their lives, property, and crops from wildlife-related conflicts.
The approach, designed to prevent destructive encounters with elephants, has enabled local residents to harvest their crops safely and has improved community safety.
During a media tour led by TAWA on October 31, 2024, residents expressed their gratitude for the education and support they’ve received, which they say has equipped them to deal with the threat of elephants more effectively.
TAWA’s collaborative approach has been widely praised for creating a sense of unity and shared responsibility in addressing this challenge.
“We’ve had excellent cooperation with TAWA, and the guidance they’ve provided on managing elephants has been invaluable. Elephants used to be a big problem, but working together, we’ve been able to keep them away,” said Karanga Mhina, a resident of Kitamri Village in Same District’s Stesheni Ward.
“We really appreciate the training and tools TAWA has provided for driving away these elephants. In the past, farming wasn’t even possible due to the constant threats, but now, thanks to the tools like noisemakers, we can finally plant and harvest our crops,” Mhina added.
Yohana Mgalula, a TAWA conservation officer from the Ruvu Same center, highlighted the magnitude of the wildlife conflict in the region. In response, TAWA, alongside local non-governmental organizations, devised a plan to involve residents in forming community-based crop protection groups.
According to Mgalula, the strategy has greatly improved their ability to safeguard their farms and homes.
After establishing the protection groups, TAWA provided training on ways to avoid harm from elephants and other dangerous wildlife.
In addition to educational support, these groups received essential tools such as vuvuzelas, whistles, and high-powered flashlights, which have enabled them to effectively manage over 90% of wildlife incidents without the need for on-site assistance from TAWA rangers.
Beatus Maganja, TAWA’s Public Relations Officer, commended the residents for their commitment and partnership with the government to overcome the challenges posed by destructive wildlife.
He affirmed that TAWA will continue to expand its educational efforts and provide the necessary resources to help communities tackle this issue effectively.
“We’re committed to increasing our educational outreach and providing communities in high-conflict areas with the tools and knowledge they need to manage wildlife incidents safely. This mission is essential to ensuring the safety and security of all residents,” Maganja stated.
Through this proactive collaboration, the new elephant control strategy has demonstrated its potential to create lasting, positive change in the lives of Kilimanjaro Region’s residents.