Assessing The Effectiveness Of Payment For Ecosystem Services In Kenya: A Case Study Of Lake Naivasha Basin

Abstract

Many case studies have generated some evidence that PES approaches can lead to positive outcomes. There is evidence of slow uptake of PES in Africa as a result of institutional weakness. This study was conducted to assess the status of land use management; to access the current status of cooperation between institutions and society; to analyse the governance context regarding regulation; and recommend policy modification that can enhance the PES scheme to result in sustainable land use practices. Primary data obtained from farmer‘s survey involved 1378 farmers selected among PES and non-PES member farmers residing within the Wanjohi, Upper Turasha and Kiambogu catchment areas. Secondary data included a review of water legislation, published journals and grey literature. The study showed that the mean farm size is 3.35 acres, where the minimum is 1 acre, and the maximum is 35 acres. There is a general knowledge of water regulations and protected areas (for example riparian areas). There is a significant relationship between conflict experienced and the impact of extension services. The conflict experienced within the study area was based on lack of cooperation, as farmers before the introduction of PES did not have a better understanding of conservation management. There was also a strong significant association between committee importance and water quality. The study showed that majority of the farmers have title deeds. This is attributed to the significant knowledge of protected areas and the need to adopt sustainable land use practices to protect the natural resources. The study also showed that enhanced cooperation is beneficial, as, given roles of the extension service by the county government to support the farmers. Though, the extension officers are faced with some challenges, the introduction of the Water Act 2016, highlights the issue of participation in the management of the natural resources by the county. The study also showed the importance of committee in managing the PES schemes. However, there is a need for PES specific policies to ensure the sustainability of the PES schemes