Can recognition and respect of forest resource rights save Echuya Central Forest Reserve? A precursor for appropriate collaborative forest management

Abstract

Recognition and respect for tenure and forest resource rights has long been considered essential for policy makers in order to promote forest conservation, and several initiatives have been undertaken to promote recognition and respect for such rights. One such initiative was the introduction of Collaborative Forest Management (CFM) in Echuya Central Forest Reserve in south-western Uganda. This study used cross sectional and explanatory research designs to assess the influence of recognition and respect for resource rights under CFM for the conservation of Echuya. Results showed that community members' resource access rights are generally respected by the National Forestry Authority (NFA). Recognition and respect for tenure and forest resource rights have a significant positive influence on forest conservation. However, conspiracy between community members and Government forestry officials undermined the essence of collaboration. Poverty exhibited by inadequate access to food compelled local community members to violate CFM agreements. Strengthening alternative livelihood support projects among forest adjacent communities is vital in order to support forest conservation.

Analysis of the Impact of Social Forestry in Achieving Conflict Resolution and Sustainable Natural Rubber Management - Case Studies of Social Forestry in Jambi and East Kalimantan

“…Some of the key informant criteria include the following: Key informants must understand the conditions and background of the research theme, Individuals who provide information must be parties who play an active role in the field, Information is willing to give their time in providing information, Informants are familiar with customs and culture at the research location. While the population of this study is divided into: internal parties (company management) and external parties (communities that own land claims, Forest Farmer Groups (KTH) that have joined the Forestry Partnership program, communities that have not partnered with companies, and Practitioners) (Bugabo et al, 2022) (Chowdhury et al, 2014) (Lee et al, 2017).…”