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Using the lens of the baobab tree, this paper explores the ecological outcomes of different tenurial arrangements and implications for resource sustainability. With the emergence of markets for baobab products, a central concern is to confirm whether use patterns differ across different tenure regimes and, if so, their ecological outcomes. The study is based on an ecological survey in Zimbabwe of 244 baobab trees located across three tenure regimes – communal, private and state – and also draws on interviews with key informants. The results suggest that tenure has a strong influence on the sustainability of baobab harvesting. Based on identified parameters of ecological sustainability, trees under state tenure were shown to be harvested unsustainably, and showed excessive bark harvesting, while those under private and communal tenure had fewer signs of debarking and produced more fruits, suggesting their use was more sustainable. Excessive bark harvesting was found to negatively affect fruit and bark production and, to a lesser extent, the overall health of the tree. The research illustrates that in order to understand ecologically sustainable use, an understanding of resource use patterns across different tenure regimes is crucial, suggesting the design of bespoke interventions to manage the use of natural resources in different tenure systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use case studies from Zimbabwe to illustrate the complexities that can undermine development efforts in semi-arid mixed farming areas. Livelihood improvement and micro-catchment management were considered in the context of portfolios of household activities. While technical and institutional interventions may strengthen safety nets, they did not appear to reduce poverty significantly. Managing common-pool resources and implementing the necessary institutional changes involved substantial and unsustainable transaction costs. Effective alleviation of poverty requires integrated, multi-tiered, and long-term interventions that expand economic opportunities and empower people to drive their own development. Key words--Africa, catchments, common pool resources, empowerment, livelihoods, Zimbabwe

ABSTRACT: In the last few years, slogans have become more elaborate and fervent with regards to promises of delivering land to peasants in Zimbabwean communal areas. Conditions in communal areas [...]

Concerns about ecological sustainability and inequality are driving increased formalization of the natural product trade, including both biotrade of bulk, raw materials (or nontimber forest products [NTFPs]) and bioprospecting for genetic resources. However, there has been little interrogation as to whether the policy tools used to achieve sustainability and equity goals are appropriate and effective. This article addresses this gap by examining efforts to formalize biotrade, including the blurred regulatory lines that increasingly exist between biotrade and bioprospecting. Two case studies are explored from southern Africa—baobab andPelargonium. Findings emphasize the unintended consequences that can arise from overregulation and poorly formulated laws, including the further marginalization of women and/or poor communities; elite capture; weakening small businesses; and leakage across political boundaries. Conclusions underpin the need to pursue solutions that are better informed and more respectful of local knowledge and needs, and that draw upon both customary and statutory laws and institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent forest management initiatives in developing countries emphasize active participation of local people. However, many such attempts have been unsuccessful because little attention was directed at promoting conscious and joint learning processes. One way to enhance joint learning is through collaborative monitoring (CM) and reflection processes. This article explores the contribution that collaborative monitoring processes make toward improving forest management within a context characterized by multiple stakeholders with often-conflicting interests. The Mafungautsi case has shown that initiating CM processes requires careful facilitation of negotiations related to the goals, approach, sharing of information; and development of platforms on which learning will take place. We conclude, based on evidence from Mafungautsi, that CM processes can contribute to improving forest management in multistakeholder landscapes if sufficient attention is paid in creating appropriate reflection and learning platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]