This study investigates the relationship between community participation in conservation efforts and land cover change in Kakamega Forest, Kenya. The objective is to understand how community involvement in conservation activities influences land cover dynamics within the forest ecosystem. Data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and remote sensing techniques. The findings reveal that community participation in conservation, including community-based forest management, awareness campaigns, and livelihood diversification, plays a crucial role in mitigating land cover change. The study highlights the importance of empowering local communities to actively engage in conservation initiatives as a means to safeguard the ecological integrity of Kakamega Forest.
Kiptot, E., Franzel, S., & Degrande, A. (2014). Adapting agricultural extension services for climate change: Insights from Kenya and Uganda. Agriculture and Food Security, 3(1), 12. doi:10.1186/2048-7010-3-12
Mwangi, E., Swallow, B., & Wahome, A. (2007). Can community forestry reverse forest degradation? Evidence from the joint forest management project in Kenya. World Development, 35(11), 1907-1920. doi:10.1016/j.worlddev.2006.11.013
Ochieng, J., Owino, V., & Otieno, R. (2017). Role of community-based organizations in natural resource conservation: A case study of community forest associations in Kakamega Forest, Kenya. Forest Policy and Economics, 76, 8-15. doi:10.1016/j.forpol.2016.12.007
Oduor, A. M., Were, J., & Mburu, J. (2017). Community participation in conservation and sustainable livelihoods: A case of Kakamega Forest, Kenya. Environmental Economics, 8(4), 1-11. doi:10.21511/ee.08(4).2017.01
Sola, P., De Meo, I., Martino, M., & Grilli, G. (2018). Community participation in the management of natural resources: A case study in Kakamega Forest (Kenya). Sustainability, 10(9), 3033. doi:10.3390/su10093033