Determinants of Gazetted Forest Dependence among Forest-Adjacent Smallholder Farmers in Kenya: Case of Elgeyo Marakwet County

Forest resources play a crucial role in sustaining the livelihood of the global population. However, degradation of this vital and fragile ecosystem has been observed. This paper examined the determinants of forest dependence among forest-adjacent smallholder farming communities. Cross-sectional data from 419 households from randomly selected smallholder farming households living adjacent to the gazetted forest in Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya, was analyzed. We used a fractional Probit regression model to analyze these determinants of forest dependence. Socioeconomic and institutional factors, plot-level characteristics, cultural norms, and beliefs were hypothesized to influence forest dependence. Findings revealed that gender, government support, and membership in forest conservation groups were important factors influencing forest dependence. Further, flat land and fertile main agricultural land reduced forest dependence. Finally, under cultural norms and beliefs, farmers’ perceptions of the forest as environmental beauty and scenery and as a source of traditional medicine and herbs increased forest dependence. We recommend policy and program intervention to promote gender participation and encourage government support and local community associations towards promoting gender participation and encouraging government support and local community associations. In addition, advocating for proper land reform policies to boost land productivity and adequate regulations for cultural activities should be encouraged to ensure the forest resource's sustainability and to promote farmers' livelihoods.