An assessment of the Forest Conservation status of Maasai Mau Forest in Narok County, Kenya

Abstract

Forest covers are being reduced as a result of human actions, particularly in developing countries. Regardless of the numerous laws and policies passed in relation to forest management activities. The main objective of the study was to assess the forest conservation status of Maasai Mau Forest in Narok County, Kenya. The study objective was to explore the status of the forest conservation from the perspective of local agencies in charge of forest protection and conservation. A descriptive survey design was adopted to establish the opinions, perceptions and views of the respondents on various forest conservation issues. The target population constituted forest conservation agencies in the Maasai Mau Forest. The study employed a non-probability sample, which was carried out using a purposive sampling procedure where study respondents were selected based on the knowledge of the study topic. Thereafter, Fisher (1998) stratified exact test and sample size calculation method was used to select appropriate sample size from each of the target population's group. Sample size comprised 143 participants from Local administration, KWS, KFS, and County Rangers officials. The research employed both descriptive designs to help answer study questions. Study methodology are descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, which helped to obtain percentages, sum, and averages as well as correlations between study variables. Data were presented in figures, charts, and tables. Study findings indicate little success in forest protection and conservation by the agencies. The research outcome indicates that the process of safeguarding and preserving the forest the level of CFAs participation was inadequate. Few forest protection programs existed, while policies required to preserve the forest were inactive or poorly enforced. Therefore, the study concluded that institution responsible for forest conservation are weak and incapacitated. The situation has led to poor enforcement of forest conversation hence paving way for exploitation of forest resources, increased logging and human settlement in forest reserves. The study recommends that there is a significant need for neighboring communities to be sensitized on importance of forests in the ecosystem. Forest conservation authorities to be empowered, trained, and re-evaluated in a bid to improve their competences. The study findings are beneficial to Kenya National Government and Narok County Government in the reformulation of relevant forest management policies and regulations.