Communities perception on the contribution of and challenges faced in the UWA’s benefit sharing scheme around Mt. Elgon National Park

Abstract

Benefit-sharing schemes (BSS) are increasingly being implemented as mechanisms to enhance community livelihoods while promoting conservation of protected areas. This study examined the implementation of BSS around Mount Elgon National Park, focusing on local communities’ perception of the scheme’s contributions to household income, and challenges faced in the implementation of the scheme in Bududa and Bukwo districts. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative household surveys and qualitative interviews to collect data on the respondents’ demographic and socio-economic characteristics, participation in BSS activities, income generation, and perceptions of scheme’s administration. The results revealed that men dominated participation in BSS activities in Bududa and Bukwo) with the 31-41 years age group being the most active (34.2% in Bududa, 35.2% in Bukwo). Most households engaged in subsistence agriculture, with livestock and crop farming significantly influencing awareness of the scheme (p < 0.001), indicating that households reliant on natural resources were more attentive to benefit sharing opportunities. Household sizes ranged between four and seven members, and educational attainment varied, with primary education being predominant in Bududa and secondary education being more common in Bukwo. Local communities’ perceptions of the BSS varied. While many respondents acknowledged the scheme’s positive contribution to income and conservation awareness, concerns were raised about equitable benefit distribution, transparency, and accountability. Income generated from BSS activities varied between forest-based and non-forest-based interventions. Forest-based activities, such as fuelwood collection, contributed more significantly to household income in Bududa, whereas non-forest-based activities, particularly tree planting, provided higher incomes in Bukwo. Apiary activities also contributed positively, although to a lesser extent. Regression analyses indicated that the district of residence, gender, age, education level, household size, and occupation significantly influenced income variations across different BSS activities. Males consistently earned more than females, younger households outperformed older age groups, and households engaged in subsistence farming generally earned more from resource-based activities than those in formal employment or businesses. Key challenges in implementing the scheme include limited funding, inadequate community engagement, language barrier and conflicts of interest. The findings show the importance of enhancing participatory governance, ensuring transparent benefit distribution, and fostering collaborative leadership to maximize both socioeconomic and conservation outcomes. This study provides critical insights for policymakers, conservation managers, and local communities seeking to refine benefit-sharing approaches and promote sustainable natural resource management in protected areas.