Coalitions of Kruger National Park

[BA0701]

@Rui Ferreira to answer your questions regarding the situation in northern Kruger, specifically the HWC in that region. I will provide what is my understanding of the situation, and hope that others, like @Rabubi, who may have a better understanding of what is going on there, may also opine.

My understanding is that it is, generally, a very poor area, and that the people who reside in close proximity to the park may well be in direct competition over resources, with the creatures who also live there as well. Resources such as crops and livestock, for instance. There is also the question of ensuring the safety of those same people, as well as the very lucrative black market trade that can result from poaching those same creatures, it can become a question of literally providing for one's family.

That is my understanding of the situation, and why it is so a dangerous place for animals of all types, not just lions. Such conditions make it very difficult to convince people that destroying these creatures is not in their best interests, and that is precisely where the government, along with those who are interested in helping the animals, should be coming up with ideas that not only helps stop the killing, but also benefits and aids the people who live there. If we were to have such a conversation, that would be, exactly my goals for participating. Reply