Internal human conflicts, forest conservation and sustainable development: The case of 5 forests in Kenya

Findings of ongoing studies of Mount Elgon (a SANREM site), Eburru, Mau, Tugen and Gathiuru (Mt. Kenya) forests, which have witnessed a wave of internal displacement incidences that have not only affected the conservation of the forest resource but also the livelihoods of the forest adjacent communities. The studies conclude that there was need to involve members of communities in direct dialogue and eventual participation in managing the forests to not only sustain their livelihoods but to also contribute to the general development of the area and the country as a whole. The study further recommends the adoption of participatory principles and their application in natural resource management.