LOCAL KNOWLEDGE BASED FOREST CONSERVATION PRACTICES OF RURAL PEOPLE IN MIRAB ABAYA WOREDA SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The thesis has attempted to document, capture and codify Local knowledge based forest conserving practice in Mirab Abaya Woreda in three sampled Kebeles (Alge, Faragossa and Fura).The study was aimed to assess the role of local knowledge based forest conservation practice of rural people in Mirab Abaya Woreda, Southern Ethiopia. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. The researcher used a mixed methods approach (both quantitative and qualitative approaches) to the study. The study Kebeles were selected purposively. Questionnaire, focus group discussion (FGD) and key informant interview were used to collect data. Questionnaire was administered to 120 farmers and stakeholders, who were selected using systematic random sampling. Purposive sampling was used to select 34 farmers and stakeholders selected to interviewees and participants of FGD. Data were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative data analyzing methods. Qualitative data which were acquired through structured interview and focus group discussion, were analyzed by using qualitative techniques (verbal description). Quantitative data, which were collected by questionnaire, were categorized, classified, tabulated, coded and entered into a computer for analysis using SPSS (SPSS version 20.0). Descriptive statistical analysis were made using percentages, frequency and graphic methods. Majority of the local community has positive perception and relatively good awareness on the contribution of the existing local knowledge for the conservation practices on the exiting forest resource. Proper recording and documenting of local knowledge would aid in its long-term protection and usage. National and local governments, the environmental community, and institutions might all play a role in recognizing, maintaining, and safeguarding the area's local knowledge treasure. So, government and stakeholders should consider such local knowledge when they produce different policies and rules and give recognition for those local knowledge