Investigating Socio-Economic Impacts On Sustainable Mountain Freshwater Ecosystem Services In Mt. Elgon Watersheds Under A Changing Climate

Abstract

The Mt.Elgon watersheds are important freshwater catchment for rivers that provide water for all aspects of human livelihoods in the region. The increasing pressures of anthropogenic drivers of climate change are impacting mountain freshwater ecosystem service provision in the watersheds. These have not been fully addressed, whereas degradation continues unchecked. This study focused on investigating the socio-economic impacts of sustainable mountain freshwater ecosystem services in Mt.Elgon watersheds under a changing climate. The study used both quantitative and qualitative data collecting tools. Livelihood was the independent variable, freshwater ecosystem services as the extraneous variable and climate change as the dependent variable, classified based on the view point of causation, stressing man‟s role and responsibility. Data is key in any research. Both primary and secondary data was collected. An intensive systematic evaluation of literature review on anthropogenic impacts on mountain freshwater ecosystem services was carried out to focus study, when carrying out unstructured interviews during field visits. Historical climate data for precipitation and discharge for the period 1960-2016 and 1948-2016, obtained from meteorological and water resources management government agencies of Kenya and Uganda was analysed for trend. Data for simulation modelling for opportunity cost and climate change impacts was provided with ecoengine model. Results from the study showed climate variability depicting both upward and downward trends for climate and discharge data. Results depicted increasing population rates and demand for land for livelihood activities which has led to increased demand for freshwater ecosystem services. Potential impacts projected, showed that with continued poor ecosystem management, freshwater ecosystem services are likely to be depleted affecting the sustainability of freshwater ecosystem services. Results of the study confirmed that socio-economic activities are impacting sustainable mountain freshwater ecosystem services in the Mt. Elgon watersheds. These will inform decision making for policy development, economic planning, enhance environmental quality, hazard mitigation and conservation for sustainable freshwater resources and services.