Management of highland wetlands in central Kenya: the importance of community education, awareness and eco-tourism in biodiversity conservation
The loss of natural habitats through destructive anthropogenic activities has been identified as one of the major drivers of environmental degradation. This is even more prevalent in developing countries where poverty and ignorance of the value of biodiversity is rampant. A pilot study was conducted in two highland wetlands in central Kenya to compile baseline data through the use of field survey, questionnaire and subsequent seminars. The study showed that wetlands offer ecological, social and economic benefits that are not fully appreciated and hence there is a lack of concerted efforts to advocate for their sustainable use. Initial findings showed that both wetlands were rich in biodiversity, especially birds. However, these ecosystems were experiencing environmental problems such as dumping of solid waste, over abstraction of water, encroachment for commercial and residential use, wetland agriculture, overgrazing, improper land use practices on the watershed and wildlife poaching. A follow-up series of public awareness and education campaigns to sensitize the local communities to the importance of the two ecosystems helped change attitudes and perceptions.