Paradigm shifts in the management of protected areas in southern africa: A narrative review

Abstract

Protected areas (PAs) in Southern Africa remain critical for safeguarding biodiversity, supporting rural livelihoods, and sustaining wildlife-based tourism. Yet, the region’s rapidly changing socio-ecological landscape has driven significant shifts in PA management paradigms. This narrative review examines four key models: fortress conservation, community-based natural resource management (CBNRM), transfrontier conservation areas (TFCAs), and collaborative management partnerships, assessing their historical evolution, achievements, and persistent limitations. The review highlights a gradual but important transition from exclusionary, state-led strategies to more inclusive frameworks emphasizing community participation, transboundary cooperation, and public—private collaboration. While each model has contributed to both conservation and community development objectives, challenges such as funding shortfalls, weak governance, escalating human—wildlife conflict, and uneven community benefits continue to constrain effectiveness. The analysis underscores that no single approach is sufficient; rather, adaptive, context-specific strategies that integrate elements of multiple models are required. Ultimately, the study advocates for a more holistic, integrated approach that reconciles ecological imperatives with socio-economic realities, thereby enhancing the long-term relevance, resilience, and legitimacy of protected areas in Southern Africa under increasing environmental and societal pressures.