Community-Based Conservation Programmes and Livelihood Impact in Northern Kenya: A Mixed Methods Study

Community-based conservation programmes (CBCPs) in Northern Kenya aim to balance wildlife protection with local livelihoods by engaging communities directly in decision-making and resource management. A mixed methods design combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews was utilised to comprehensively assess community perceptions and programme impacts in Northern Kenya’s wildlife conservation areas. Findings indicate that CBCPs have significantly improved wildlife protection efforts by fostering positive attitudes towards conservation among local communities, evident from a 45% increase in reported sightings of endangered species. CBCPs are effective in promoting coexistence between human and wildlife populations through community engagement and resource management strategies. Policy makers should prioritise CBCP implementation to enhance biodiversity protection while supporting local livelihoods, based on the observed positive outcomes. Community-based conservation programmes, Northern Kenya, Livelihood impact, Wildlife protection