| Forest reserves in Zambia have undergone drastic changes over the years due to encroachment by human activities such as agriculture, charcoal production, firewood collection and settlements. Little is known about the extent and characteristics of illegal firewood collection and charcoal production. This case study focuses on Mwekera National Forest No. 6. Objectives of the study are: to conduct a forest cover change analysis from 1984 to 2006, to identify characteristics of illegal charcoal and firewood activities, to determine the extent of illegal firewood harvesting and charcoal production, and to suggest intervention measures aimed at reducing the illegal activities. The project involved mapping of activities using Global Positioning System (GPS), taking photographs of activities, analyzing satellite images and conducting key informant interviews. Over 3,350 hectares of forest cover was deforested between 1984 and 2000. Between 2000 and 2006, 459 hectares of forest cover recovered. In 2006, 4,836 hectares were open land while 13,051 hectares were forested. Characteristics of the illegal activities were identified. People involved are poor, unemployed and in need of alternative livelihoods. The study recommends that government should fund research on alternative energy sources. Poor communities should be empowered, policies harmonized, and the Forest Department strengthened. |
