Economic Analyses of Non-timber Forest Products Utilised by Communities around Kwabaktina Forest Reserve

Abstract

This study was carried out among communities surrounding the Kwabaktina forest reserve in Adamawa state, Nigeria with the aim of assessing the utilisation of Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in the study area. Data were collected through Stratified and purposive sampling designs using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics to identify NTFPs utilised in the study area. The result showed age, educational status and household size had a significance effect on the extent of NTFPs utilisation in the study area. Income had no significant in determining the level of the utilisation of NTFPs; while gender had a significant implication on the utilisation of NTFPs. This may be attributed to the relative scarcity of most of the NTFPs as a result of deforestation and the present awareness of their (NTFPs) importance to the communities. NTFPs play an important role in the livelihood of people in the communities. These products occupy a significant place in the livelihood of the people. To ensure speedy growth and yielding (development) of NTFPs in the study area; it is recommended that NGOs (commonwealth forest association and Forest association of Nigeria) who are concerned with trees planting and sustainable forest management; and an individual should participate in funding of trees planting campaign in marginal land. Also, the people of the communities should be encouraged to embark on economic trees planting for the provision of raw materials for carving/crafting; these can help to reduce rural-urban population drift and the prevailing unemployment especially among youths.