EFFECTIVENESS OF TRANSBOUNDARY COLLABORATIVE CONSERVATION IN VIRUNGA NATIONAL PARKS

Abstract

The general aim was to assess the effectiveness of transboundary collaboration in the contiguously adjoining protected areas of Virunga massive. The specific objectives were, a) to identify the role of different stakeholders in the management of transboundary collaboration, b) to assess the level of collaboration between the three authorities and governments, c) to assess the participation of local communities in planning and management of the natural resources, and d) to establish the effectiveness of the approach in managing natural resources. The study employed both the primary and the secondary data sources. The questionnaires were used to collect data from officers and the discussion with relevant officials was conducted. A total 90 local community members were interviewed from the three countries. The secondary data were collected from management of Mgahinga National Park, Parc Nationaux des Volcano of Rwanda, Parc National des Virunga IGCP staff and crossection of protected areas stakeholders and government institutions of the three countries. The Results indicated that regarding the collaborative management between the three authorities, it was found out that information exchange and joint patrol were the major activities. By 2003, in Uganda poaching had reduced to 1 case and the wire snare to 54 which accounted for 2.3% and 8.8% respectively from the 23.3% and 19.6% in 1997. However the figures in Rwanda reduce slightly due to the security situation. It was also discovered that the local communities of DR. Congo and Rwanda were highly involved in planning of conservation activities that the case with Uganda.