摘要：This study was conducted in three districts of the southern lowveld of Zimbabwe to assessthe economic impact of CAMPFIRE among rural households in the area. Data were collectedthrough surveys from households (n = 569) and key informant interviews from ward councillors from 10 communities, and historical data from the district offices between Septemberand November 2014. Results showed that households were incentivised through direct andindirect economic benefits. The direct economic benefits were small but the householdsappreciated the infrastructural facilities from CAMPFIRE. About 3% of surveyed householdsfelt that CAMPFIRE contributed to a reduction in human-wildlife conflicts. Both direct andindirect benefits deteriorated after donor withdrawal beginning 2003, as evidenced bya sharp decline in household dividends, and an increase in human-wildlife conflicts andincidences of illegal hunting. However, given that households still benefit from CAMPFIRE,more than a decade after donor withdrawal is an indication of its resilience. Revitalising theCAMPFIRE model is crucial given its benefits for households at the grassroots and itscontribution to conservation. Improving transparency and providing tenure security for thehunting area in CAMPFIRE would increase effective ownership of the programme at thehousehold level and promote its sustainability.
