THE NEXUS BETWEEN COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN CONSERVATION AND LAND COVER CHANGE IN KAKAMEGA FOREST, KENYA

Аннотация

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. ‎