Authors: Frank Hanondwe, Mr Bandaa
Abstract: Deforestation, a growing problem in many developing countries, has an especially intense impact on Zambia. Though indirectly, it seems that some people are thriving on the suffering of others by using the forests for pasture, urban use, logging industries, etc. While the poor need these dominant tree species as a basic means of survival, for things like cooking and warmth, others are cutting down these dominant tree species to build houses or burn them during chitemene system of farming as well as charcoal production. The destruction of dominant tree species such as Julbernardia, isoberlinia and/or Brachystegia may negatively affect the ecosystem in Mkushi District.. Hence, the aim of this study was to explore the effects of deforestation on indigenous tree species in Mkushi. For this purpose a random sample of 80 persons of varying age, education level and social status were selected from the study area such as charcoal burners, wild fruit gatherers, mushroom collectors, honey searchers, caterpillar harvesters, lumberers and small scale farmers in order to collect genuine information regarding deforestation activity. Results of analysis from the findings revealed that deforestation threatens biodiversity and undermines key ecosystem services such as climate and water regulation. Shortened flow of seasonal streams and the drying up of formerly permanent rivers have been observed. Land degradation causes hydrological imbalance and increased risks for floods and droughts, undermines social economic development and continues to deepen the poverty crisis. Pterocarpus angolensis is under threat of extinction in Mkushi and very soon before people come to realise it will get depleted. The people may also be deprived of economic benefits of good climatic conditions if the dominant tree species get depleted. The importance of forests is crucial to the well being of humanity. Forests provide a lot of great services and benefits to our ecosystems, birdlife, wildlife, insects and humanity. A large percentage of the population relies on forests for their livelihood and subsistence farming for survival.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19607412
