Perpetuated Human-Wildlife Wars: A Case Study of the Marauding Elephants in Mbuvori Small Scale Farms, Embu, Kenya

Abstract

This research was prompted by increasing cases of damage by elephants reported in media and frequent public demonstrations by small scale farmers adjacent to Mt. Kenya forest. A sociological survey was conducted in Mbuvori a sub-location in Embu District to examine types and extent of damage; effectiveness of conflict management strategies and people’s attitudes towards elephants. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The conflicts have a great negative impact on the community’s welfare. Management strategies are ineffective and are not dictated by people’s attitudes. Legislation that considers the interest of locals and goals of sustainable conservation should be enacted.

Keywords: Household, conflicts, management, attitudes