Between Institutional Conservation and Peasant Strategies: Local Practices for Managing Human-Wildlife Conflicts Around Comoé National Park

Abstract

Around Comoé National Park, wildlife incursions into agricultural lands create tension between institutional conservation goals and the preservation of livelihoods for local communities. This study analyzes local practices for managing human-wildlife conflicts and how they relate to institutional mechanisms for biodiversity protection. It is based on a qualitative and comprehensive approach, conducted with 45 participants selected through purposive sampling in nine villages in the Bouna, Nassian, and Dabakala sectors.The data collected through semi-structured interviews, field observations, and literature review, were subjected to thematic content analysis and triangulation The results reveal a variety of farmer strategies involving field surveillance, scarecrows, sound devices, used mosquito nets, and smoke, as well as trapping and killing animals. These practices reflect trade-offs between crop protection, food security, and compliance with hunting bans. Their effectiveness remains limited by the persistence of incursions. According to respondents, inadequate institutional responses, the absence of compensation, and a lack of training undermine reporting efforts and cooperation with park managers. Village conservation and development associations, however, provide forums for collaboration on monitoring and combating poaching. The study highlights the need for a collaborative management approach that combines recognition of farmers’ traditional knowledge, technical support, and consideration of agricultural damage, to reconcile wildlife conservation with the security of livelihoods.

Key words: Human-wildlife conflicts; farmer strategies; institutional conservation; local governance; Comoé National Park. 

Received Date: September 17, 2026

Accepted Date: October 09, 2026

Published Date: November 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/1042