Three officials from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) have used a community radio platform to educate residents on ways to address the growing challenge of human–wildlife conflicts in areas surrounding the conservation zone.
The officials, led by Chief Conservation Officer for Community Development Paul Mwabusila, participated in a public awareness programme aired by Lumen FM, a community radio station based in Karatu District in Arusha Region.
During the programme, the officers provided education to listeners on practical measures that communities can take to prevent and manage conflicts between people and wild animals, which remain a common challenge for residents living near protected wildlife areas.
Mwabusila said human–wildlife conflicts often occur when animals move from protected areas in search of food or water, sometimes entering farms or grazing areas and causing damage to crops and livestock.
He explained that the authority is strengthening public education through different communication channels, including community radio, to ensure that residents understand safe ways of coexisting with wildlife while protecting their livelihoods.
Through the programme, listeners were advised on several preventive measures, including safeguarding farms, avoiding practices that attract wildlife to residential areas, and reporting wildlife incidents to conservation officers for timely intervention.
Mwabusila noted that radio remains one of the most effective communication platforms for reaching rural communities because it allows important conservation messages to reach many people at the same time.
He stressed that cooperation between communities and conservation authorities is essential in addressing the challenge and ensuring that both people and wildlife are protected.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority continues to implement community outreach programmes aimed at strengthening awareness and promoting peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife in areas surrounding the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
