The role of government policies towards soils, wetlands and forests conservation a case study of Bunyarugulu in Ruburizi district
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Date
2012-09
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Publisher
Kampala International University, School of engineering and applied science
Abstract
The study was conducted in the two constituencies, Katerera and Bunyaruguru that make up Rubirizi district. An investigation was conducted to assess the role of government policy relating to soils, wetlands and forest conservation. The study executed six specific objectives but the general objective was to find out how the government has involved the local people at policy and decision making levels used in conservation of soils, wetlands, forests and to examine the importance of soils, wetlands, forests conservation to the local communities of Rubirizi. Both descriptive and exploratory research designs were employed to collect data.
Systematic Random sampling techniques was applied in information collection. A sample size of 60 respondents was used. The tools used involved administration of written questionnaires, interviews, observation, photography and documentary review. They were later processed and analyzed using excel files and Microsoft excel statistic program. The respondents showed positive attitude in relation to the conservation of natural resources and understood their importance. There was link between people and the environment they live in. In spite of the positive attitudes by the local communities, they still lack essential information about the importance of Wetlands conservation and environmental management at a large. Therefore, this calls for need for environment education programs and should consider the community member values as a means of enhancing sustainable conservation projects. The high percentage on direct and indirect natural resource uses showed need for local communities to develop positive attitudes towards natural resources especially through community participation since these derive lots of benefits. Avoid conflicts of interest when making decision on environmental matters. Therefore district leaders should carefully balance environment and development when making decisions so that future generation do not have to pay for poor decision made now .The conflicts of interests often lead to custodian of policy breaking. The researcher recommends that there is a need for policy enforcement officers’ like local leaders and the stakeholders responsible for prepared to monitor whether environmental polices are followed and applied and to take legally described steps and procedures against those who do not follow them.
Description
A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of a degree of bachelor of science in environmental management of Kampala International
Keywords
Government policies, Soils, Wetlands, Forests, Conservation