A study in the Ruvuma landscape of northern Mozambique and southern Tanzania examined how local communities view the livelihood impacts of private versus community-managed conservation. Through discussions and workshops, researchers found that many residents feel excluded from resource access and receive few benefits from current conservation models, despite promises tied to tourism. Communities also reported economic losses from human-wildlife conflict.
The study reveals strong local support for community-based natural resource management (CBNRM), where residents have greater control, share in the benefits and are part of sustainable livelihood solutions. Importantly, people favored approaches that combine conservation with practical needs—such as regulated hunting programs, which generate revenue, manage wildlife populations and strengthen local stewardship.
The findings emphasize the importance of rights-based, participatory conservation policies that prioritize benefit-sharing, adaptive management and long-term coexistence between people and wildlife. Empowered communities are more invested in protecting the land when conservation aligns with their economic interests.
