Environmental degradation as a cause of conflict: a case study of the Mau Forest Degradation in Kenya(1963-2010)
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Date
2011Author
Mbugua, Margaret W
Type
ThesisLanguage
en_USMetadata
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The evolution of the analysis of environmental degradation has been in favour of the broadening subject matter that constitutes the livelihoods of a person, group or a state. The evolution has ' seen a shift from the traditional approach of environmental degradation to one that is contemporary in approach. In this contemporary approach, there is the identification of human induced environmental degradation. In the analysis of human induced population degradation, population growth and displacement is the established component that seeks to show the extent of depletion and possible conflicts it leads to in a society.
Through the analysis of the concept of environmental degradation, the major threat is man-made, characterized by human settlements and Agricultural practices. The threat is manifest where there are competing interests due to competition over natural resources. In the region, Kenya as state in East Africa has had to deal with these conflicts in ways that are reckoned favourabled and unfavourable to both the residents around the Mau and the entire nation. Information derived from the case study of the Mau forest degradation in Kenya 1963-2010; provide divergent views from the local citizens and officers in authority.
Analysis of opinions show that there is indeed an environmental degradation issue that Kenya has to deal with, not through the traditional approach but rather with the contemporary approach. This contemporary approach caters for the examination of the effects of environmental degradation as a cause of conflict in Mau forest, Kenya. In addition, the contemporary approach also caters for the challenges of deforestation, ethnicity, water and food shortages; and the exploration of the conceptual linkage between environmental degradation and conflict. The information gathered in the study brings out the continuous assessment of the study of environment related conflicts and most importantly; on the impact of food security and development. Some environmental degradation issues and tends in Mau are indicated as being negative and positive. However, considering all circumstances, Kenya has the potential to improve her environmental issues that will lead to a robust economy, with resources for industrial development.
Publisher
University of Nairobi, Kenya