Status<i> </i>of<i> </i>Local<i> </i>Structures<i> </i>in<i> </i>Community<i> </i>

Forests offer a wide range of benefits to humanity, including environmental, ecological, cultural, social, and economic contributions. Traditionally, forest management practices have largely excluded local communities. However, recent years have seen a growing emphasis on involving local residents in forest management a concept referred to as Participatory Forest Management (PFM). This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of local structures in facilitating community participation in PFM within Ol Bolossat Forest in Kenya. Data collection methods included interviews with members of the Community Forest Association (CFA), key informant interviews, and direct observations. The results indicated that local structures, as defined in the study, consist of groups or organizations responsible for executing activities in communities adjacent to the forest. These included the Ol Bolossat CFA, various user groups, and the Forest Level Management Committee (FLMC). Notably, 75.8% of households reported current membership in the Ol Bolossat CFA. The user groups were established to enhance forest management and ensure sustainable practices in conservation, protection, production, and utilization. Most members were involved in activities such as cultivation through the Plantation Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (PELIS), livestock grazing, and firewood collection. These groups contributed to increased agricultural output and provided resources like livestock fodder and firewood. Key indicators of effective forest governance identified in the study included heightened community involvement, equitable participation, inclusivity, and fair distribution of benefits. The findings suggest that a significant portion of the local population has actively engaged in the conservation and management of Ol Bolossat Forest, resulting in widespread benefits from PFM. This study adds to the body of knowledge on forest governance, conservation efforts, and the enhancement of rural livelihoods among communities bordering Ol Bolossat Forest.