To graze or not to graze livestock in public forests

Insights from Mau and Aberdares forest ecosystems in Kenya

Abstract

Forest ecosystems are important for the social, economic, and environmental well-being of many people globally. However, with the growing human needs and the impacts of climate change, there is an emerging forest policy discourse on whether to allow or disallow livestock grazing in public forests. This study used a case study research design and document content analysis to share comparative insights on the effects of forest grazing in two critical forest ecosystems in Kenya. The key documents reviewed included official government publications, policy papers, strategic plans, academic articles, relevant case studies from government websites, academic databases, international organizations, and research institutions specializing in sustainable forest management. The findings indicate that Kenya is endowed with diverse forest capital with immense potential for contributing to sustainable development. However, there is a complex interplay between livestock grazing and forest ecosystems. Insights from Mau and Aberdares indicate that livestock grazing in the two ecosystems under the current grazing system has a positive socio-economic impact. However, due to overgrazing by livestock, there are significant negative environmental impacts such as soil degradation, compaction, and erosion, reducing the forest land's ability to retain water and support plant growth, reduction in biodiversity, exacerbating the spread of invasive species, and increased vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods and landslides besides increased carbon emissions. Moreover, despite deploying several strategies to enhance sustainability, there is no adequate monitoring framework for the indicators of grazing impacts. Based on the precautionary principle, this study recommends banning livestock grazing in the two ecosystems. However, a "win-win" arrangement should be developed to enhance the "cut and carry system" for fodder from the two forests to promote livelihoods and socio-economic empowerment. These findings are critical for promoting the sustainable management of critical water towers with similar contexts in the country and enhancing the achievement of various national development aspirations, such as the aspiration to plant 15 billion trees by 2032 and a host of climate-related commitments.