AN EXAMINATION OF VALUES UNDERLYING LOCAL PEOPLE’S PERSPECTIVES TOWARDS CONSERVATION OF MULANJE MOUNTAIN FOREST RESERVE

Abstract

This study examines values underlying local people‟s perspectives towards conservation of Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve (MMFR). The Forest Reserve is located in Mulanje District in the Southern region of Malawi, and is endowed with very rich biodiversity which is being degraded by the people. Weak anthropocentrism is the theoretical framework that has been used in the study. The theory acknowledges that felt preferences are sometimes irrational hence need to subject them to reason before acting on them. The theory also disapproves value systems which are purely exploitative towards nature. The study employed both focus group discussions and key informant interviews, and the data was analysed through thematic data analysis method which generated different themes for discussion. The findings reveal that people have positive perceptions towards conservation of MMFR because of instrumental values. They explained that they support conservation of the Forest Reserve because it brings them good rains, it controls flooding and for the sake of future generation. Even though people generally have positive perception towards conservation, in terms of values, the study has shown that the local people are informed by both weak and strong anthropocentric values towards conservation of Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve. Those who hold weak anthropocentric values are taking part in conservation unlike those whose values are informed by strong anthropocentric values. Furthermore, the study also reveal that most of the environmental conflicts at the reserve originate from areas whose people generally hold strong anthropocentric values and these are the areas where the forest has been seriously damaged. Due to value differences, MMCT and Forestry Department are making headway only in areas where people hold weak anthropocentric values. This implies that value differences that exist have influenced local people's perception towards conservation of Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve. This is manifested in the way different communities have responded to the conservation initiatives that are being undertaken by the conservationists at the reserve.