AN ASSESSMENT OF THE ROLE OF LAND TENURE AND OWNERSHIP IN THE MANAGEMENT OF WETLANDS: THE CASE OF OKANA WETLAND ECOSYSTEM IN THE LOWER NYANDO RIVER BASIN, KENYA

Abstract

Wetland ecosystems, like any other natural resource, have been exploited by the adjacent communities so as to sustain
their livelihoods. The ecosystems have supported millions of livelihoods of the riparian communities and even beyond
since time immemorial through their socio-cultural and economic values as well as ecological functions. The ecosystems
should therefore be well planned and managed through wise use for sustained livelihoods hence sustainable development.
However, the planning and management of the ecosystems is impeded by land tenure and ownership which is not clear
in most wetland areas. The phenomenon has impacted negatively on the planning and management initiatives of the
wetland ecosystems thereby compromising their quality and quantity hence sustainability. The situation has been
exacerbated by the climate change phenomenon. The paper sought to assess the impacts of land tenure and ownership in
the planning and management of wetlands with specific reference to Okana in the lower Nyando River Basin, Kenya. The
study used techniques such as photography, surveys and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tool in collecting data.
Field data was analyzed using SPSS. The survey revealed that community participation in the planning and management
initiatives is quite minimal due to unclear land tenure and ownership of the wetlands. The results therefore form basis in
addressing land tenure and ownership issues, which enhance degradation of the wetland ecosystems thereby putting the
livelihoods of the riparian communities who depend on the wetland resources at stake. The paper recommends enhanced
sensitization and awareness of land tenure and ownership of wetlands taking cognizance of the National Environmental
Management Authority (NEMA) regulations on buffer zones