Effect of sport hunting on wildlife conservation in Rurambira and Nyakahita parishes, Nyakashashara sub county, Kiruhura District

Abstract

The study was conducted to determine the effect of sport hunting on wildlife conservation. A cross-sectional design was used for the survey. Given the stratified structure of respondents, the strategy was chosen since it allowed for simultaneous interaction with many groups. The study population consisted of sport hunting companies, district local government officials, UWA officials and local community members. The instruments and methods of data collection that were used in this study included the structured questionnaires. Content analysis was the main technique for data analysis. The data was classified, tallied, and totaled according to the objectives of the study. Quantitative data was tabulated and converted into frequencies and percentages to fit the objectives of the study. Data was subjected to content analysis in which the main themes were identified, analyzed, and presented in relation to the objective of the study. The analysis of the data collected was done in stages. Results showed an association between the decrease in poaching and advancements in animal conservation that is statistically marginally favorable because of the decline in poaching (r = 0.271**; p = 0.000). The belief that sport hunting is done to raise money for wildlife conservation has a moderately significant statistical relationship with wildlife conservation (r = 0.301**; p = 0.001). This is because the plan that makes sport hunting a source of income also contributes to improvements in wildlife conservation. sport hunting statistically strongly predicts wildlife conservation in a positive way (B =-0.255; p =.000). Inference suggests that an improvement in some areas of sport hunting led to an increase in wildlife conservation of 25.5%. Conclusively, results showed that wildlife conservation improves animal security, increases the possibility of obtaining foreign currency, benefits local populations by providing leisure and entertainment, and is a savior for the environment. According to the findings, there are still significant knowledge gaps regarding the justifications for sport hunting. The study’s findings show a knowledge gap in terms of protecting animals. As a result, it is necessary to organize meetings that will allow the Lake Mburo national park increased sensitization. Officials must be aware of the value of wildlife for them to engage in the sale of goods generated from local resources.