This study assesses land-use conflicts in the Okavango wetland ecosystem. A survey of the livelihood activities of a
sample of four villages has been carried out and a stakeholder approach used to identify and analyse the key
actors involved in resource competition and conflicts in the area. Traditional and emerging stakeholders were
identified and found to be in conflict not only with each other but within themselves. Institutional policies on land use
in the area are not properly harmonized, and there has been a top-down approach to development planning and
implementation of development programmes. As a result, land-use conflicts have escalated in the area. The
Okavango Delta Management Plan adopted in 2007 should integrate and harmonize all the land-use policies, and
land management in the area.