The diverse socioeconomic contributions of wildlife ranching

The diverse socioeconomic contributions of wildlife ranching are increasingly recognized as a vital element of sustainable development, particularly in the context of South Africa. However, there remains a limited understanding of how different wildlife ranching business models impact local economies and conservation efforts. This research delves into these nuances by examining various wildlife ranching enterprises, including ecotourism, trophy hunting, and mixed wildlife-agriculture operations, across the Eastern Cape and Limpopo provinces.

The study provides a comprehensive analysis of these business models, focusing on their financial viability, employment creation, and broader contributions to local communities. For example, ecotourism-focused ranches were found to employ a higher number of people, particularly women, and provide better job security compared to other models. On the other hand, trophy hunting ranches, though more profitable, tend to depend on seasonal work.

The findings highlight the importance of acknowledging the diversity within the wildlife ranching sector when developing policies and strategies to promote sustainable development. By understanding the unique socioeconomic roles of each business model, policymakers can better support the growth of a wildlife economy that enhances both conservation and community benefits.