Invasive alien plants, conservation and livelihoods:  the case of Vernonathura polyanthes in the Chimanimani Uplands of Zimbabwe

Abstract

Biological invasions can have major social-ecological consequences for local communities across the world. However, the dimensions (characteristics, infestation and socio-ecological impacts) of emerging invasive alien plants are often less well known but urgent information is needed to guide policy and management. In light of this, this paper assesses the social-ecological impacts of Vernonathura Polyanthes an emerging invasive alien plant, in a Zimbabwean upland landscape which supports conservation and livelihoods. Informed by exploratory participatory qualitative methodologies we discussed the socio-ecological and economic implications (benefits and impacts) of Vernonathura Polyanthes and how it is managed in the eastern parts of Chimanimani, Zimbabwe. We found that there are nuanced perspectives of this invasive tree among different socio-economic groups in the region who have different experiences of living with Vernonathura polyanthes. Some are embracing it for apiculture, firewood, and ethnomedicine, on the other hand for others the tree is negatively affecting key livelihoods (crop farming, pastoralism and tourism) that are common in the region. Local people also identified that Vernonathura Polyanthes is associated with ecological impacts that include loss of biodiversity, promoting pests and negatively affecting watersheds and associated water security. Mixed experiences on the plant are leading to different management practices, in turn inducing some conflicts among various actors. Based on our findings we suggest more should be done to better manage this invasive plant in the region before negative impacts become too great, particularly in the protected areas in the region.