Linda Mugure Kimotho Biography
Born and raised in the view of the undulating Aberdare ranges, her interaction with rich biodiversity sparked an interest in nature conservation. She would 19 years later join Kenyatta University for a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and Community Development, marking the beginning of her career as a conservationist.
Currently, she is a passionate wildlife conservationist specializing in the use of Geospatial technology in wildlife monitoring. In addition, she holds a master’s degree in Project Planning and Management from the University of Nairobi and is interested in projects that offer solutions to social, economic and environmental challenges.
Topic
Influence of community-based conservation interventions on people’s attitudes towards lion conservation in Meru national park, Meru county, Kenya
Abstract
Inadequate compensation to communities for wildlife related losses creates resentment and intolerance resulting in retaliatory killings of the already endangered species. Thus, the need for community-based conservation interventions. This study sought to look at the influence of community based conservation interventions on people’s attitudes towards lion conservation in Kanjoo community adjacent to Meru National Park. The independent variables of the study were conservation education to communities, conservation benefits accrued to communities, human wildlife conflict management and park management policies while the dependent variable was people’s attitudes towards lion conservation. The study used a descriptive study design with a sample size of 112. Data collection instruments were questionnaires and interview guides. The findings revealed that conservation education, conservation benefits, human wildlife conflict management and park management policies had a role in influencing people’s attitudes towards lion conservation. A correlation test showed that all the independent variables except conservation education had either a weak or a moderate positive correlation with the dependent variable. Visual methods of conservation education were more impactful while both shared and individual benefits influenced community’s attitude to conservation. Delayed compensation for losses negatively influenced people’s attitudes while good relationship with park management created community support for conservation. The study recommended use of visual channels of conservation education, incentive projects that solve economic and social problems, timely compensation of wildlife related losses and friendly enforcement of park management policies. Further studies are recommended in the study area focusing on elephants and cultural beliefs of the community towards lions.
