Abstract:
Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) occurs when interactions between humans and wildlife result
in negative outcomes for both parties, such as the loss of property, livelihood, or life. These
conflicts can lead to retaliatory killings, which may eventually drive wildlife species to
extinction. The study aimed to assess the human-wildlife conflict and its effects on wildlife
conservation of nguangke, luel and riek villages in Jekow District, Gambella, and Southwest
Ethiopia. Data were collected through questionnaires, focus group discussions, interviews, and
direct observation. Quantitative data collected by questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS
(Version 26), with descriptive statistics presented in tables. Qualitative data from interviews,
focus group discussions, and direct observations were analyzed narratively. The target
population consisted of 828 households from rural villages and district experts, with a sample
size of 384. The majority of respondents reported human wildlife conflict (HWC) due to crop
damage, livestock predation, human injuries, and resource competition between humans and
wildlife. Among the respondents, 79.2% were male and 20.8% were female, with 55.5% aged
between 40-49. Most respondents (79.2%) were farmers. birds are highest for (46.8%),
porcupines (44.4%), warthogs (44.1%), and baboons (42.4%), showing widespread recognition
of crop damage. Similarly, strong agreement on predation by lions, leopards, and hyenas (all
around 46.8%) shows high concern for livestock losses. The majority of respondents (78.1%)
had a positive attitude toward wildlife conservation, most respondents (83.5%) understood how
wildlife enters their land, and 83.3% recognized the causes of wildlife crop damage.
Additionally, 83.5% expressed satisfaction with the community's understanding of wildlife
importance. Overall, the findings show that the local community holds a strong positive attitude
and good awareness toward wildlife and its conservation. Respondent’s reported92.6% using
dogs to minimize damage from baboons and warthogs. Other methods included fencing, chasing
scarecrows, hunting, and using cattle dung.
