Impact of human activities on degradation of natural forests: a case study of Rwoho forest, Kabuyanda subcounty, Isingiro district, Uganda

Abstract

The study of impact of human activities on degradation of Rwoho forest took a case study of parishes of Kisyoro and Kanywarnaizi in communities of Kabuyanda subcounty lsingiro district. The objectives of the study were to find out different human activities carried out in and around areas surrounding Rwoho CFR, values of the forest, what has been done under pol icy and measures, then recommendations to overcome or control forest degradation, frequency and the degree of impacts of degrading the forest. Methods of data collection included questionnaire, interview, photography, direct observation and review of related Literature. Results show that the major human activities that threaten Rwoho forest were permanent agriculture, animal grazing, settlement, logging and lumbering and charcoal burning. Major forest values that are a source of income were found to include timber, medicinal herbs, and fuelwood and food products. The consequences of degrading Rwoho forest were found as increased drought, water and wood scarcity and destruction of forest biodiversity. Measures to overcome forest degradation included improved guarding, zoning and promotion of afforestation.