Influence of Spatio-Temporal Changes of Nyando Wetland on Watershed Stakeholders’ Perceptions on Its Sustainable Management

Abstract

Nyando Wetland provides the watershed community with a range of interrelated environmental functions and socio-economic benefits that support a variety of livelihood opportunities. Threats from overuse and unsustainable management due to the adoption of a top-down approach interfere with the ecological functions of the wetland, resulting in spatio-temporal changes. This raises concerns about watershed stakeholders’ perceptions in the management process. This paper employs a mixed research design to investigate the influence of spatio-temporal changes on watershed stakeholders’ perceptions of sustainable management of Nyando Wetland. This will inform policy for the adoption of management options that involve stakeholders from the grassroots (Bottom-up approach). The target population of the study constituted 384 household heads, 45 heads of institutions, and 5 experts in wetland conservation and management. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 384 household heads at the household level. Purposive sampling was also used to select 45 heads of institutions and 5 experts for key informant interviews. Questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observation were used to collect primary data. Remote sensing imagery was used to collect secondary data. Cross-tabulation and Chi-Square were used to analyze data. Results show a general decline in the Nyando Wetland area of 2269 ha (-27%) between the years 1992 and 2022. Further, stakeholders have divergent perceptions on sustainable management. Also, an increase or decrease in wetland area directly influences perceptions of sustainable management. Therefore, stakeholder participation should be fostered in decision-making. This will aid in the sustainable management of wetlands where participatory and conservation strategies align ecological restoration with the socio-economic needs of the watershed community. The paper recommends the restoration of the lost Nyando Wetland area through participatory wetland rehabilitation.