Initiation Success of the Conservation Component of Community-Based Natural Resource Management in the Okavango, Northern Botswana

Abstract

Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) is a bottom-up approach that is widely
practiced in developing countries because of its promise to promote sustainable conservation, empowerment,
and generation of economic benefits for local communities. However, there are concerns that the CBNRM
communities focus more on resource exploitation for short term financial benefits than investing in
sustainable conservation. This study evaluates the undertaking of the conservation component of CBNRM
in Sankuyo and Khwai communities in Okavango, northern Botswana, between 2008 and 2013 following
the introduction of the national CBNRM policy. It further examines community perceptions on the
effectiveness of the CBNRM programme in facilitating rural development and biodiversity conservation.
The study was carried out before the hunting ban of 2014-2019 came into effect. We found that during the
five-year period when the area management plans were in operation, the Sankuyo community initiated 86%
(6/7) and Khwai community initiated 71% (5/7) of the conservation projects they had planned to undertake
under CBNRM. Most of the respondents in the two communities were satisfied with the proportion and
importance of the initiated projects on conservation. The projects were reported to have reduced wildlife
poaching, illegal safaris, and unlicensed harvesting of thatching grass. Despite the high initiation of the
conservation projects the respondents, nonetheless, believed that the CBNRM was primarily introduced to
drive rural development and generate benefits for the community than for conservation. However, the high
initiation of the conservation projects by Sankuyo and Khwai communities demonstrates their recognition
of conservation as an integral part of the CBNRM that also needs attention for the long-term sustainability
of the CBNRM.