Community-Based Forest Management in Virunga National Park Border Area: A Longitudinal Impact Assessment

Virunga National Park in eastern Congo is a critical biodiversity hotspot, bordering Uganda where deforestation poses significant threats to its ecological integrity and local livelihoods. The study employs longitudinal data from participatory surveys conducted annually over a five-year period to assess changes in land use practices and environmental outcomes across CBFM sites compared to control areas. Significant reductions (30%) in deforestation rates were observed among participating communities, with increased engagement in sustainable forest management activities such as agroforestry and wildlife conservation initiatives. CBFM programmes have demonstrated substantial success in fostering sustainable land use practices that protect the park's natural resources while enhancing community well-being. Policy makers should consider scaling up CBFM models with additional financial incentives, capacity-building support, and integrated ecosystem management strategies to sustain these positive outcomes. Virunga National Park, Community-Based Forest Management, Deforestation Prevention, Sustainable Land Use