Summary

CAMPFIRE programme is one of CBNRM strategies designed to deal with Natural Resources Management at grassroots level. The programme aims to empower rural communities to manage their natural resources sustainably, for their local development. The research seeks to assess and compare socio-economic and institutional dynamics surrounding CAMPFIRE in two selected communal areas adjacent to Hwange and Gonarezhou National Parks. Little is understood about how local institutional arrangements, cultural and historical backgrounds influence aspects such as local perceptions on Campfire, benefit sharing outcomes and Human Wildlife Conflicts. Learning different institutional arrangements in two contrasting areas will help designing of stronger institutional and benefit sharing arrangements in the management of wildlife and in view of the impending Transfrontier Conservation Areas.