Implementation of Participatory Forest Management in Kenya: A Case Study of Karima Forest

This paper analyzes the distribution of powers before and after the implementation of participatory forest management (PFM) in Kenya. The paper is a case study of the Karima forest in the Central Highlands of Kenya. The study relies primarily on 34 semi-structured interviews with key actors involved...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The international forestry review 2016-09, Vol.18 (3), p.357-368
Main Authors: Thygesen, S.H., Løber, T., Skensved, E.M., Hansen, C.P.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Accountability
Benefit Sharing
Democratic Decentralization
Rights
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Summary:This paper analyzes the distribution of powers before and after the implementation of participatory forest management (PFM) in Kenya. The paper is a case study of the Karima forest in the Central Highlands of Kenya. The study relies primarily on 34 semi-structured interviews with key actors involved in and affected by the PFM. The paper finds that the established Community Forest Association (CFA) has not been entrusted with significant powers; all powers and benefits remain with the local authority (county government). Moreover, the paper documents that the CFA offers a poor representation of the forest communities and weak downward accountability relations. Finally, it illustrates a planning process, which has weaknesses in participation and inclusiveness. Consequently, the paper suggests three areas for PFM policy reform in Kenya: (i) the role (powers) and function of CFAs; (ii) benefit sharing; and (iii) ways to make the PFM process more participatory and inclusive.
ISSN:1465-5489
2053-7778
DOI:10.1505/146554816819501673