Bushdays are changing views on human-wildlife conflicts in Khwai

In the Kkwai community human-animal conflict has unfortunately been part of everyday life. Nestled amidst the untamed beauty of Botswana, children grew up with a palpable fear of elephants and buffaloes, viewing them as formidable adversaries rather than majestic beings worthy of reverence. But recently a remarkable journey unfolded as these young children embarked on a game drive through a private reserve, an initiative powered by Natural Selection in partnership with Coaching Conservation which is a programme of Wild Entrust. What began as a journey tinged with trepidation where the kids couldn’t bear to look at the elephants and begged the guide not to drive closer, soon blossomed into a profound revelation and a newfound appreciation for the gentle giants that roam their land.

As the children ventured into the heart of the reserve their senses were awakened to the wonders of the natural world. Guided by experienced professionals and passionate conservationists, they bore witness to the magnificence of elephants and buffaloes in their natural habitat. Through patient observation and gentle guidance, the children began to see beyond the spirit of fear, recognizing the intrinsic value of these creatures in the delicate web of life. With each passing moment, barriers dissolved, replaced by a sense of awe and respect for the majestic beings that call their homeland, home.

As the game drive ended, a palpable transformation had taken root within the hearts of these young adventurers. No longer were elephants and buffaloes viewed through the lens of conflict but rather as cherished neighbours deserving of compassion and understanding. The bush day initiative had achieved more than just an educational outing. It had sparked a revolution of the heart sowing the seeds of coexistence and harmony in a community normally divided by fear. As these children returned to their village their newfound perspective radiated like a beacon of hope illuminating a path towards a future where humans and wildlife thrive side by side in peaceful coexistence.