Community perception of forest protection and its implications: Insights from the peri-urban forest reserve in Kazimzumbwi, Tanzania

Luzabeth Jackson  Kitali

doi:10.51867/ajernet.7.1.17

Authors

Luzabeth Jackson Kitali
luzabeth.kitali@mnma.ac.tz
Kivukoni Campus - Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy, Tanzania https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7723-0021

Keywords:

Community, Forest Protection, Implication, Kazimzubwi, Perception, Tanzania

Abstract

Due to the ecosystem services they provide, forest resources are essential for the development of human society. The protection of forests is inevitable because of their importance in ensuring sustainability. This study seeks to examine community perception on forest protection by integrating it with remote sensing data and investigates socio-economic and environmental implications of protection to the surrounding communities. This study used a case study design and was guided by Elinor Ostrom's socio-ecological theory. The study used a sample of 301 respondents for quantitative data and 12 respondents for qualitative data, making a total of 313 respondents. Respondents were selected from two wards of Kazimzumbwi and Kisarawe using simple random and purposeful sampling techniques. Various tools were used to collect the information, including the use of semi-structured questionnaires, key informants’ interviews, satellite images that were downloaded from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) archives, and reviews of literature. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics with the statistical Package of Social Sciences 12 while quantitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. The satellite data was analysed using the random forest (RF) algorithm and mapped in ArcGIS 10 software to examine the forest cover changes in Kazimzumbwi Forest Reserve from 1994 to 2024. The results showed that the majority of respondents were aware of forest protection, which was identified using several local knowledge indicators that indicated an increase in trees. Such an indicator was proved by a satellite image that shows the increase in bushland and open woodland and the decrease in the area occupied by grassland in the area. In a similar vein, respondents acknowledged the existence of social, economic, and environmental impacts in the area that were mainly reflected by economic hardship and a decrease in farmland. The increase in energy prices, control of soil erosion, climate regulation, improvement in biodiversity, fear and insecurity, rise in crime, lack of compensation, and enhancement of social services were all noted as significant issues. The study recommends the need to strengthen the governance system by engaging local communities in decision-making and establishing sustainable livelihood support to the community surrounded by the protected forest. It also recommends for implementing continuous environmental education provision among the key stakeholders to ensure sustainable commitment to the protection.

Dimensions

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