Unrelenting community encroachment and deforestation: the case of Maasai Mau Forest in Narok County, Kenya

Globally and more specifically in developing countries, forest covers are dwindling as a result of human encroachments and deforestation. This is regardless of the numerous forest conservation zlaws and policies in force. The overall study objective was to ascertain the forest conservation status of Maasai Mau Forest in Narok County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to establish the extent to which the relevant state agencies have succeeded in warding off encroachment and deforestation; in effecting reforestation and enlisting Community Forest Associations (CFASs) participation in their forest conservation activities. However, the study findings showed minimal success in the twin objectives since forest encroachments and deforestation continue unabated as evidenced by the rising number of forest-related crimes, illegal forest settlements and reported cases of deforestation. Evidently, existing legal enforcement mechanisms are ineffective. Available forest protection programmes and policies were found to be weak, inadequate and/or poorly coordinated. The practical conservation role of CFAs was equally found to be rather minimal. It is therefore, concluded that the objective of safeguarding the Maasai Mau Forest from human encroachment and deforestation remains a long shot. Hence, there is the need to strengthen the relevant legal framework, institutions, stakeholders, policies and programmes.