Power and Knowledge in the Implementation of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area: The Case of Sengwe in Zimbabwe.

Abstract

In this thesis I investigate power relations among various actors in Transboundary Natural Resource Management (TBNRM) settings. I look at their effects in relation to control over and access to resources, local farming and conservation practices and on the livelihoods of local people. I focus on the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA) and on the Sengwe prefecture in particular, part of which is a contested area that is designated as a wildlife-corridor (which I refer to as the Corridor). This, small but vital component of the park links Zimbabwe with the rest of the conservation area. While not much research has been done there the effects of the initiative bring about a total transformation to the livelihoods of approximately 5000 local people. When this Corridor was introduced in 2000, legislation required a total displacement of the human settlement. Almost a decade after its establishment land for relocation has not been set aside, nor have any compensatory plans been put in place.