Background & Rationale

Conservation Challenges in RMNP

The conservation of biodiversity in national parks in Uganda, just like elsewhere in African countries, is threatened by local communities' illegal activities.

  • Poaching and illegal plant extraction
  • Wildlife trade
  • Conflict between protected areas managers and local communities
  • Pressure on natural resources from surrounding communities

Through offering visitors immersive cultural experiences within local households, eco-home stay initiatives generate income, enhance environmental stewardship, and foster community participation in conservation. Studies show that community-based tourism, when well-managed, can significantly contribute to biodiversity protection and sustainable green development. However, the feasibility of eco-home stays in RMNP remains largely unexplored, necessitating an assessment of their economic viability, social acceptance, and ecological impact.

Research Objectives

Main Objective

To assess the feasibility of eco-home stays as a sustainable tourism model for enhancing green development and supporting biodiversity conservation in communities surrounding Rwenzori Mountains National Park.

Specific Objectives

1

To map and georeference eco-homes using GIS around RMNP

2

To assess the challenges facing eco-homes around RMNP

Methodology

This study was longitudinal in nature and conducted between July and September 2024. The research focused on working within the 5km distance of the national park to develop homes into eco-home stays.

Data Collection Methods

  • GIS Mapping: Georeferencing of eco-homes using Geographic Information Systems
  • Food Systems Assessment: Evaluation of agricultural practices and inputs
  • Focus Group Discussions: Community consultations with farmers and residents
  • Field Surveys: On-site assessments of eco-home viability

Key Findings

Mapping & Georeferencing Results

40 Eco-homes mapped in areas surrounding RMNP

Challenges in Current Agro-Inputs

The study revealed significant challenges related to agricultural practices in the eco-homes:

"We have over cultivated land and is no longer productive, which is why we use chemicals. Agro-chemicals are readily available and often cheaper than organic inputs, making them a common choice despite their drawbacks" — FGD Male Farmer, Kinyampanika, July 2024
"Farm inputs like fertilizers and manure are expensive, which reduces the profit from harvests. Organic inputs are more costly and take longer to produce, making them less appealing compared to readily available chemicals" — Male Farmer, Kitumbe II, July 2024
"Crops treated with chemicals often look better and are more appealing in the market, which is why they attract more buyers." — Male Farmer, Bukuba, September 2024
"Our organic inputs like manure and fertilizers take longer to produce and are more expensive, which poses a challenge compared to the readily available chemicals." — Local Female Farmer, August 2024

Conclusion

The reliance on unsustainable agro-inputs in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains is driven by a complex interplay of productivity needs, economic constraints, and market dynamics. While there is a growing awareness of the negative impacts of agro-chemicals, the transition to organic farming faces challenges. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes promoting organic alternatives, educating communities, and supporting sustainable practices.

Management Recommendations

Key Interventions Required

🌱 Promote Organic Alternatives: Make organic inputs more accessible and affordable to encourage sustainable agricultural practices
⚖️ Regulate Markets: Implement measures to regulate the sale and use of agro-chemicals, ensuring their use does not pose risks to health and the environment
📚 Community Sensitization: Educate communities about the risks associated with agro-chemicals and the benefits of organic farming through outreach and educational programs
🔬 Research & Development: Develop sustainable agricultural practices and inputs that can improve productivity while minimizing environmental impact
💰 Incentivize Sustainable Practices: Provide financial incentives and support for farmers who adopt and successfully implement sustainable agricultural practices

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