Is Custodianship of Wildlife Resources in the Commons the Only Way Forward?

Abstract

"Communities in Southern Africa's communal lands have become custodians of their natural resources. Post-colonial governments have ensured local community participation in conservation of biological resources and themes of property rights, sustainable use, resources values and the equitable distribution of conservation costs and benefits.

"Governments and institutions have incorporated global sustainable natural resource management strategies and tourism related action plans as wise-use models to address economic, political, cultural and ecological concerns in the commons. SADC have endorsed this rhetoric as an appropriate approach to demonstrate that sustainable use and management of wildlife (resources, flora and fauna) is a viable economic alternative for communities now farming marginal land; increase local employment and income generating opportunities from community-managed natural resources; as well as expand the role of women in the decision making processes in local economies. There is as yet however, little evidence of real tangible opportunities and benefits to expand community participation outside of the wildlife resource management framework.

"The realities of rural community integration fall short of policy and planning rhetoric caused by the lack of harmony in legal institutional frameworks, land tenure issues, access and accessibility to resources, benefit sharing, conflict resolution, partnerships and enterprise development. Is this because communities do not own the commons?

"Challenging the interpretation of custodianship in the commons of Southern Africa highlights global development strategies and action plans as inappropriate for community's needs. In conclusion the paper identifies the failure to even consider the profound changes necessary to work towards a true sustainable society although alternatives are suggested. Management strategies have in fact intensifying the maldistribution of resources, inequalities in political representation and power, and the growth of a consumptive-led society in the commons."