Land Use Change and Communities’ Knowledge and Perceptions of Sitatunga Antelope (Tragelaphus Spekii) In Saiwa Wetland, Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya

Abstract

Saiwa swamp is one of the critical wetlands in Kenya that is situated in the Saiwa watershed that is an important home to a wide range of wildlife and also a source of livelihoods to the local community. The swamp is facing threat to its existence due to human activities that have led to the swamp degradation with notable loss of native wildlife habitat, animal biodiversity and plant cover lost. The objectives of this study were to characterise different vegetation types in Saiwa swamp, to analyse Land Use Land Cover Change (LULC) and Sitatunga antelope population and to assess the local community knowledge and perception towards the conservation of Saiwa wetland. This study employed a mixed methods research design; household surveys, key informant interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). In addition, Landsat images were used to detect the land use land cover changes and to characterise vegetation type. Descriptive analysis and Chi- square were used to analyse household data while quantum geographic information system (QGIS) was used to establish the vegetation classes and the land cover changes. Key informant and FGDs were analysed using thematic areas. Analysis of Landsat imagery revealed notable changes in LULC patterns within Saiwa Wetland over the 30 years studied. The findings also reveal that the respondents are aware of the interrelatedness of their activities and the natural resources of the environment. They know that besides biodiversity conservation, the swamp plays an important role in providing the community with livelihoods, cultural and economic needs. The findings also established they are aware that their livelihood activities threaten the swamp. Therefore, protecting and managing the Saiwa swamp ecosystem is essential for the well-being of both present and future generations. For sustainability of both the swamp and community livelihoods, the County and National government should work together with all stakeholders to create and establish a culture of stewardship and collective responsibility among local communities. Most importantly, the community should be involved in designing conservation interventions as a key to ensuring adoption and implementation