Limits of cultural and traditional mechanisms in tropical forest conservation

Abstract The coastal forests of Kenya represent a global biodiversity hotspot. Most of the forest remnants are small fragments of sacred forest, known as Kaya forests, while there are also few larger protected areas. Historically, the Kaya forests were preserved through traditional taboos and rules. However, ecological, social and economic changes have made this traditional type of protection less effective. In a workshop conducted at the Pwani University in coastal Kenya, we discussed and analysed the multiple reasons why traditional conservation practices are increasingly becoming less effective. Cultural protection upheld by Kaya elders, the custodians of the sacred forests, is challenged by modern lifestyle. The elders are increasingly isolated from the community since the younger generation considers the traditional rules as outdated. In addition, nowadays, the governmental institutions officially responsible for forest conservation and land management, do not formally integrate the elders in their decision-making. However, to preserve sacred forests, strategies needs to be adapted to these changing social circumstances, as was shown by our workshop discussions. Closer collaboration between Kaya elders and other stakeholders is essential to reconcile the varying economic and conservation interests. Governmental recognition of Kaya people and their livelihood needs, traditional knowledge and practices will be a basis for achieving the sustainable management and conservation of Kaya forests.