Using traditional governance systems to manage competition over natural resources

Abstract

This case study cover the Gourma region of Mali, south of Timbuktu, where a small population of approximately 350 “desert-adapted” African elephants Loxodonta africana undertake an annual migration circuit spanning over 32 000 square km driven by the widely dispersed natural resources in the region. Their migration primarily responds to the availability of water, food and refuge throughout the year, while avoiding areas of high human activity. Started in 2006, following three years of scientific studies the Mali Elephant Project sought to understand the threats to the elephants as arising from the multiple relationships within the social-ecological system, and then try to shift key factors affecting those relationships so the net result would be a reduction in threat for both humans and wildlife. This case study outlines how this approach translated into action. It describes an iterative, adaptive approach of deepening understanding (ecological and socio-economic surveys), coupled with community engagement and action.