This study examines Zimbabwe’s Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources (CAMPFIRE) and its success in reducing human-wildlife conflict near Gonarezhou National Park’s northern boundary. Focusing on four communities, it employs mixed-methods including focus groups, interviews with 236 respondents, incident reports (2000-2010) and financial data analysis. Launched in 1989, CAMPFIRE aimed to sustainably use wildlife, improve livelihoods and involve communities in conservation. It was administered via Rural District Councils, with revenue meant for specific wards. Findings reveal varied community perceptions of effectiveness, linked to conflict reduction and involvement. Negative attitudes toward problematic wildlife persisted. Challenges included limited community participation, unequal benefit distribution and illegal activities. Recommendations suggest enhancing community involvement through devolved decision-making and equitable benefit-sharing, strengthening conservation education and improving conflict mitigation strategies. CAMPFIRE’s success depends on genuine community engagement, fair benefit distribution and conservation awareness, addressing socio-economic needs for sustainable community-based conservation.
