The potential role of indigenous resources in the economic development of arid environments in Sub‐Saharan Africa: The case of wildlife utilization in Zimbabwe

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Abstract
Africa's indigenous resources could be more effectively developed both to increase incomes and to reduce desertification. Africa, with its diversity of species, has given rise to few conventionally and sustainably exploited commodities. Existing evidence with respect to the potential of large mammals as an alternative land‐use system in marginal areas is considered. Some of the theoretical and empirical evidence presented supports the assumption that returns can be increased without increasing environmental pressure as a result of the multiple, high‐value, and less consumptive uses for wildlife. The article emphasizes the importance of isolating a high‐value output to establish any new industry, the need to ensure that benefits outweigh opportunity costs for local inhabitants, and the importance of addressing the issues from a multidisciplinary perspective.