Description:
This study investigates the nature, extent, and impacts of human–wildlife conflict (HWC) along the boundary of Etosha National Park (ENP), where both communal and commercial farming areas experience increasing interactions with wildlife. The expansion of wildlife populations associated with Namibia’s Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme has intensified conflicts involving elephants, predators, and other species, threatening crops, livestock, infrastructure, and human safety. The report examines ecological and behavioural aspects of problem animals, the socio-economic consequences of HWC for farmers, and community perceptions of wildlife. It further evaluates existing policy frameworks and the effectiveness of management responses by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. The findings highlight the complex dynamics of HWC and provide recommendations for improving mitigation strategies and support systems for affected communities.