This study investigates the impact of human activities on the conservation status of Lake Kamnarok Game Reserve in Baringo County, Kenya. The main objectives were to identify the major human activities affecting the lake’s ecosystem and evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation strategies. A cross-sectional research design was employed, and a sample of 323 respondents was selected using both stratified random sampling for community members and purposive sampling for key informants. Data were collected through structured interviews, questionnaires, direct field observation, and photography. Analysis was conducted using SPSS, applying both descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings were presented in tables and figures. Results revealed that overgrazing (92.5%), agricultural expansion (38.2%), and deforestation (18.0%) were the key drivers of habitat degradation, biodiversity loss, and increasing human-wildlife conflict. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference in the impacts reported (χ² = 288.5, df = 6, p < 0.0001). While various mitigation strategies have been implemented—such as awareness campaigns, enforcement of conservation laws, and eco-tourism promotion—their effectiveness remains limited due to weak enforcement and minimal community participation. The study concludes with recommendations for strengthening policy enforcement, community engagement, and adoption of integrated conservation approaches to enhance the sustainability of Lake Kamnarok Game Reserve.
Kipkemei et al. (Wed,) studied this question.