Perceptions of Wildlife Parks by Youth Who Live Near Them: A Study in Samburu, Kenya

Abstract

This study investigated the perceptions of 99 youth from two Samburu, Kenya primary schools about the benefits and impacts of nearby wildlife-based protected areas. Participants responded in writing to two questions which the researchers coded to identify key themes. Building on prior work with youth in the Maasai region of Kenya and adults in Samburu, the study revealed that most youth perceived parks as providing economic benefits related to tourism, showed limited understanding of the conservation benefits, and believed that protected areas create opportunities for undesirable behavior (e.g., poaching, crime) and impacts (e.g., pollution). The authors call for enhanced instruction in science and ecology in schools, and improved outreach to youth by protected area staff.