THREATS TO THE SURVIVAL OF TIRIKI SACRED GROVES IN KENYA: A CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

A study was conducted in Hamisi district of Kenya between March and May 2020 to identify not only the drivers of cultural change among local people around the Tiriki sacred groves but also how changes in their culture have impacted on their interactions with the groves and the remedial measures needed to ensure sustainable conservation of the special forests. Study methods involved participatory observation, household interviews and discussions with key informants. Geographically stratified area sampling ensured all areas with sacred groves were covered. Observed desecration of the groves was associated with changes in people’s cultural links with them. Major drivers of cultural change included modern religion, rural poverty, modern education and modern lifestyle. Local people’s culture alone can no longer secure a future for the groves and popular opinion supports public-private partnerships to ensure their effective protection. Opportunity for involving local people in preservation of the groves through education exists