Using Figure 12 and your own knowledge, assess the implications of this data for sustainability in areas of savanna grassland in east Africa - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 1

The data in Figure 12 indicates that human encroachment is affecting wildlife populations, particularly the wildebeest, which rely on migratory paths that are increasingly obstructed. This affects biodiversity and can lead to ecological imbalance. Overgrazing and poaching not only threaten individual species but also alter the overall health of the ecosystem, making it less resilient to changes.

Tourism, as suggested in the data, could provide an economic incentive for conservation. However, the reliance on wildlife tourism can be precarious. While it has the potential to generate revenue, it also places additional pressure on the natural habitats. A sustainable approach must incentivize local communities to protect wildlife rather than exploit it, ensuring tourism practices align with ecological health.

Sustainable practices in land use, such as controlled grazing and conservation agriculture, should be encouraged to balance human and ecological needs. The challenge lies in integrating local knowledge with conservation efforts, ensuring that sustainability is a shared goal that benefits both wildlife and local communities.

The sustainability of savanna grasslands in East Africa is critically threatened by developmental pressures, but also presents opportunities. Collaborative strategies that incorporate conservation, tourism, and responsible land management can create a framework for a more sustainable future. Stakeholders must engage in active dialogue to ensure that both biodiversity and community livelihoods are prioritized.