Rangeland Ecology & Management

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The importance of dry woodlands and forests in rural livelihoods and poverty alleviation in South Africa
Author
Shackleton, Charlie M
Shackleton, Sheona E
Buiten, Erik
Bird, Neil
Publisher
Forest Policy and Economics
Publication Year
2007
Body

Indigenous forests and savannas, along with plantation forests, offer numerous benefits to rural communities and society at large. Yet, the role of forests and forestry in contributing to sustainable livelihoods and poverty alleviation are widely debated. However, much of the debate pertains to lessons from the humid tropics, with little consideration of the widespread dry forests and savannas. This paper considers the role of dry forest types, including savannas, using South Africa as a case example. It concludes that a large proportion of the population makes use of forests and the resources from them. These are vital components of local livelihoods, which probably prevent people from slipping into deeper poverty. Moreover, for a measurable proportion, engagement in informal forest activities, as well as the formal forestry sector, has resulted in them being able to move out of poverty. Additionally, the generally dry nature of forests in South Africa, coupled with the high unemployment rate, limit the extent of alternative locally based livelihood options, thereby magnifying the contributions from forests and forest products. The depressing effects of widespread HIV/AIDS on labour availability, economic activities and livelihoods has exacerbated peoples' dependence on forest products.

Language
English
Resource Type
Text
Document Type
Journal Issue/Article
Journal Volume
9
Journal Number
5
Journal Pages
558-577
Journal Name
Forest Policy and Economics
Keywords
ecotourism
forestry
Non-timber forest products
Plantations
Poverty
Safety-net
savannas
South Africa
sustainable livelihoods
socio-economic aspects
savanna
sustainability
subsistence agriculture
Africa