Evaluating the Effectiveness of Anti-Poaching Efforts in Combating Wildlife Poaching at Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Tanzania

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of antipoaching strategies in Udzungwa Mountains
National Park (UMNP), Tanzania. Data was
collected from 80 respondents, including
conservation officers, rangers, ex-poachers,
community leaders, and intelligence officers.
The analysis identified awareness campaigns
and ranger training as the most effective
strategies, with mean effectiveness scores of
5.5 and 5.3, respectively. While patrol
frequency and GPS surveillance were valuable
enforcement tools, resource limitations and
insufficient community engagement reduced
their impact. Despite legal frameworks,
challenges in prosecution and low morale
among the anti-poaching force persist. The
study highlights the need for a balanced
approach integrating legal enforcement,
advanced technology, community involvement,
and enhanced ranger support.
Recommendations include strengthening
judicial resources, expanding communitybased initiatives, and improving ranger
training and morale to achieve sustainable
conservation outcomes. This study offers
valuable insights into anti-poaching strategies
in UMNP and provides guidance for
improving wildlife protection efforts in highrisk areas