VOICED : Botswanas marauding elephants trigger hunting ban debate

The video discusses the challenges faced by communities in Botswana due to elephants destroying crops, exacerbated by a 2014 hunting ban. Previously, regulated hunting provided income and controlled elephant populations. The ban has led to economic difficulties, as tourism, the proposed alternative, is not always viable. Botswana, home to a significant elephant population, relies heavily on tourism and diamond mining. The debate between conservation and hunting is driven by economic needs rather than moral considerations, with concerns that the ban may lead to illegal hunting.

What was one of the main reasons for the financial stress faced by villagers after the hunting ban?

• Destruction of crops by elephants

• Higher taxes imposed by the government

• Lack of access to clean water

• Increased tourism opportunities

Why is photographic tourism not always a viable alternative to hunting in Botswana?

• It is less profitable than diamond mining

• It is affected by low wildlife densities and diseases

• It is not supported by the government

• It requires more infrastructure than hunting

What is the government's goal regarding tourism profits in Botswana?

• To increase hunting quotas

• To benefit everyone without harming animals

• To focus solely on diamond mining

• To reduce the number of tourists

What is a major challenge in changing the mindset of local communities towards conservation?

• Opposition from international organizations

• Difficulty in seeing immediate benefits

• Lack of educational resources

• Insufficient government support

What concern do tourist guides have about the hunting ban?

• It will cause villagers to engage in illegal hunting

• It will lead to a decrease in tourist numbers

• It will reduce the number of available jobs

• It will increase the cost of conservation efforts