Community involvement for capacity building, training and promotion of ownership of conservation initiative by local communities. The analysis of stakeholders within the project area has reinforced earlier findings of a complex socio-economic context. Contemporary approaches to participatory learning and action suggest that enhanced natural resource management involves the community at all levels and stages. The project will support staff and equipment needs for community conservation units in each country, coordinated by a professional social ecologist with a support team of conservation extension staff. At the local level the project will encourage partnership fora and employ and train community facilitators to work with local communities. Targeted training will be offered to develop skills related to conservation and cultural and nature-based tourism. Possible areas for support include the establishment of pony trekking stations, training local guides for nature and cultural heritage (e.g. rock art) interpretation services, training in basket weaving, pottery and other craft production and marketing advice, and propagation and sale of medicinal and ornamental plants. Community conservation programs will serve as an entry point for communication, conflict resolution and development programs, and build and maintain trust between communities and conservation agencies. The long-term nature of this program will demand that there is continuity following project implementation.