Miombo woodland management and its ecosystem and social consequences in Missombo, Menongue, Angola
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63688/desarrollo.v3.i2.44Keywords:
Miombo woodland, sustainable forest management, charcoal, ecosystem services, Angola.Abstract
Introduction: Miombo woodlands provide essential resources and ecosystem services to many communities in southern Africa, but intensive biomass extraction and agricultural expansion can alter woodland structure and regeneration capacity. Objective: To analyze social perceptions and ecosystem pressures associated with the management and use of Miombo forest resources in Missombo, Menongue, Angola. Methodology: A mixed-method field study with an exploratory-descriptive scope and concurrent triangulation design was conducted. From a reference population of 300 inhabitants, 55 participants were purposively selected: 50 community members, two traditional authorities, and three environmental technicians or social agents. A 12-item questionnaire, semi-structured interviews, and an observation form with eight indicators were used. Quantitative data were analyzed using absolute frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were examined through thematic content analysis. Results: Charcoal was the most frequently used forest resource (38%), followed by firewood (31%). Charcoal production (47%) and agricultural expansion (29%) were the pressures most frequently identified. Ninety percent of participants reported not knowing the environmental regulation functions assessed. Conclusion: Sustainable Miombo management in Missombo requires integrating environmental education, economic alternatives, community regulation of forest use, and local monitoring of pressures on the woodland.References
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