Sustainable Management Practices of Sio-River Wetland, Nambale Sub-County, Busia County

Abstract

Wetlands are vital resources on the earth's surface and their roles and functions cannot be underestimated. The unique nature of the wetlands is recognized both at global and local levels. The objective of this study is to examine the sustainable management of the Sio-River Wetland in Nambale Sub-County. There is scanty research done to examine and document the sustainable management of the wetlands for the residents of Nambale Sub-County hence the need for study. To underscore the objective, a mixed research approach coupled with cross-sectional research design was used. Questionnaires, observation, interview guides, Geographical Information System and Remote Sensing were used in data collection. Questionnaires were administered to 400 inhabitants through cluster, simple random and purposive sampling. Qualitative data was thematically analysed while quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Ver.21). Results showed that human activities, more so, agriculture degrade the wetlands by 80%. It, therefore, concluded that there was no balance between human activities and sustainable management of Sio-River Wetland due to the irresponsibility of the local community, inadequate policies and laws and lack of integrated approach in management. In this aspect, this study recommends rehabilitation and restoration of fragile ecosystems, allocation of funds for research and development and adoption of an integrated approach in wetland management to enhance the sustainability of wetlands in Nambale Sub-County and other parts of the world. The study recommends participatory management of wetland resources and additional knowledge in the field of Sustainable Management of Rivers and Wetland Ecosystems