Towards a framework for the utilisation of Forest resources: a study of Nakuru district

Abstract

Forest depletion, is one of the many critical problems facing Kenya today. Its gravity is seen from the emphasis laid on afforestation and reforestation programmes in the country. Forest depletion in Kenya and Nakuru District in particular, is accentuated by the lack of a comprehensive framework to guide the management and utilisation of the resource both in indigenous or plantation forests. The nature and magnitude of the problem is manifested by the large forest areas lost to agriculture, shortage of raw materials, etc. The search for such a tool, therefore assumes the main thrust of this study. However, this study lays its emphasis on management and utilisation of forest reserves managed by the forest department.