Honest Makanyire – In December 2025, Tikobane Trust-Zimbabwe worked with local farmers in Dete to reduce human–elephant conflict and protect livelihoods as the farming season began.

The initiative, carried out in partnership with Wild Africa, provided communities with practical, non-harmful methods to keep elephants away from crops.

“Our goal was to show that people and elephants can live together peacefully,” a Tikobane Trust spokesperson said. “By equipping farmers with the right tools and knowledge, we helped them protect their crops while safeguarding wildlife.”

Farmers used a combination of elephant repellents, vuvuzelas, and torch lights to deter elephants safely. The strategy proved effective, demonstrating that communities could defend their livelihoods without harming the animals.
Partners supporting the initiative included IFAW, WWF Zimbabwe, Elephant Human Relations Aid, and the Wildlife Conservation Society, all committed to promoting coexistence between people and wildlife.

“Empowering communities was key,” the spokesperson added. “When people understood elephant behavior and had the right resources, conflicts decreased, crops were protected, and elephants remained safe in their natural habitat.”

The December 2025 programme highlighted the value of community-led conservation and showed that with awareness and innovation, humans and elephants can share the landscape peacefully.