Assessment Of The Sustainability Of Kiwengwapongwe Forest Reserve, Zanzibar

ABSTRACT

The study to assess the sustainability of Kiwengwa-Pongwe Forest Reserve, Zanzibar was conducted in May 2012. Four villages were involved namely Pongwe, Ndudu, Kumbaurembo and Gulioni. The data were collected by using questionnaires, interview, focused group discussions, physical site visits and literature reviews. One hundred and twenty households, four village leaders and ten forest officers participated in this study. The data were analysed using statistical package for Social Science (SPSS) version 16.0 and qualitative data analysis techniques. Also, Microsoft excel was used in drawing for illustrations. The field results indicate that there were several social economic factors affecting the sustainability of Kiwengwa-Pongwe Forest Reserve. The most observed factors threatening the sustainability of the reserve include conflicts of interest, deforestation, wild fires, encroachment and poaching. Results further indicate that participation of local communities in management of the reserve is low. The study concludes that, Kiwengwa Pongwe forest reserve is threatened by several serious issues that hinder its sustainability. In order to achieve the sustainability of KPFR, the study recommends a careful look for best alternative income generating activities, effective encouragement of community involvement, increase public awareness on importance of forest management and establishment of alternative sources of energy, such as solar and wind energies for communities.