Livelihood dependence on ecosystem services of local residents: A case study from Mabamba Bay wetlands (Lake Victoria, Uganda)

Abstract

The case study presented in this paper describes the importance of ecosystem goods and services provided by the wetland ecosystem of Mabamba Bay (Lake Victoria, Uganda) to the local community. A local survey among 320 households showed that water supply, sand mining, fishing and agriculture are the most important ecosystem services provided by the wetlands. The annual economic value of these services amounts to about US$130 per capita, compared to a cash income of residents of about US$55 per capita and year. The total value of ecosystem services was estimated at US$170 to 180 per capita, based on the willingness-to-pay of residents to secure provision of these services. In addition, the wetlands also provide services such as carbon storage and tourism, which have important value to the national and global community. The comparison between cash income and money value of ecosystem services highlights the importance of the wetlands to the livelihood of residents. The paper also highlights the urgent need for sustainable management of the resources based on inclusion, participation and empowerment of local stakeholders. © 2010 Taylor & Francis.