Community-Based Natural Resource Management

Abstract

There are a number of reasons why decision makers should support CBNRM. 1 The Southern African Development Community (SADC) recognizes CBNRM as an important strategy in the forestry and wildlife sectors. Article 12 of the Protocol on Forestry commits SADC States to: " Adopt national policies and mechanisms " to enable community forest management, and Article 7.4 of the Protocol on Wildlife Conservation and Law Enforcement commits SADC States to establishing or introducing " mechanisms for community-based wildlife management. " 2 CBNRM contributes to rural development and poverty reduction by providing communities with: ◆ Income for social welfare projects or infrastructure development. ◆ Jobs and additional income that can increase household assets (for instance, extra cash to buy a plough, refrigerator, or radio) CBNRM also provides the following development benefits: diversified land uses and livelihoods; support to local safety nets; and strengthened local institutions for common property resource management. 3 CBNRM empowers communities by providing rights over land and natural resources, building skills and capacity, establishing community decision-making bodies, promoting community advocacy, and enabling women to take up leadership positions. Across Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe at least 6,400 CBNRM management bodies, committees, community-based enterprises, or trusts and at least 4.4 million people are involved in CBNRM activities. 4 CBNRM promotes conservation through sustainable resource management. Wildlife numbers are