Improving the role of communities in participatory forest management through artificial intelligence: the case of Nairobi city park community forest association

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into participatory forest management (PFM) is emerging as a promising strategy for promoting sustainable forest management in developing countries. Using a case study approach from Kenya involving 85 respondents from the Nairobi City Park Community Forest Association, this study explored the potential for AI implementation in PFM to improve community roles in data acquisition and management. The study results show that the current data management system for executing community roles in PFM is inefficient, time-consuming, and susceptible to errors. However, there are substantial gains and opportunities in implementing community roles through AI. AI utilization could be fostered through the existing Information Communication Technology (ICT) resources such as smartphones for efficient and transparent data processes. Notably, 90% of respondents express confidence in AI’s potential to enhance PFM efficiency. Despite this optimism, 67.1% emphasize the necessity of a comprehensive AI policy that emphasizes continuous community engagement and adaptation of AI to local contexts.