Forest Planning and Management for Human Development in Africa: a Case of Kenya

Abstract

Planning and management of forests are very important activities that enhance the survival and conservation of forests, thus, supporting human development. Ideal forest planning requires stakeholder’s participation particularly the local community around forests. Overall objective of the study was to determine the link between forest planning and management and human development Africa specifically Kenya. The precise objectives were to find out the role of forests in human growth in Africa, to explain how communities can be involved in planning and management of forest in Africa and to recommend ways through which benefit from forest products is divide between the government and community members. Green Theory and Social System Theory formed the basis of study. Green Theory contains an element of values and ethical issues and therefore supports the redefinition of climate changes phenomena in relations to long-standing environmental values. Social Systems Theory involves the analysis of humanity on how they acclimatize to their environment through adjustments in its structure, with imperative insinuations for the understanding of social order. The hypotheses were stated as per objectives as: Null hypothesis (H0 ); There is positive correlation between forest and human development and (H1) There is a correlation between forest and human development, Null hypothesis (H0) Forest planning and management has positive impact on the community and (H1) Forest planning and management has an impact on the community and null (H0) There is no clear benefit from sharing of forest products between governments and communities and (H1) There is a clear benefit from sharing of forest products between governments and communities. The study engaged a case study research design which forms a framework of an entire work, in order to get in-depth of the studies. A target of 100 members drawn from community forest association forms a study population. Sample size was determined using a mathematical formula given Krejcie and Morgan. Data were collected through focus, group discussion and key informants. Findings were summarized and concluded as per the given specific objectives. Study concluded that forests play essential roles in human development in a country by providing goods for and services. The recommendation was to inform policy makers and further research is also provided.