Forest Adjacent Community Perception on Fencing for Forest Conservation around Western Mt. Kenya Forest
Keywords:
Forest Adjacent Communities, Forest Conservation, Fence, Attitudes, Mt. Kenya ForestAbstract
Fencing for forest conservation currently applied in many countries. Data on community perceptions regarding the erection of fences aimed at conserving forests is however limited especially in developing countries. This study was carried out to assess local people attitudes on fencing for forest conservation management of Western Mt. Kenya Forest. A random sampling technique was used in administering semi structured questionnaires to 194 households living adjacent to the forest. The study established that local community members were mainly involved in clearing the fencing routes and attending meetings. Fencing reduced human wildlife conflict, game damage to forest plantations, increased forest regeneration, reduced forest destruction, reduced cattle theft and reduction in income. Majority of the respondents from the fenced location feared that fencing has resulted in reduced incomes, conflict with the authority, increased incidence of electrocution of livestock and children by the electric fence and cutting off of communities. Among the local community members, there was perceived reduction in collection of firewood from the forest, reduction in timber to the locals, reduced wild vegetables, fruits and honey from the forest but reduced livestock theft. The overall perception was that fencing has enhanced benefits towards the local communities in the region. It is recommended that fencing should be done after thorough consultation with the local community members, stakeholders and information on the benefits of fencing duly stated to the local community members living adjacent to the forests.
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