Conserving Africa’s rain forests: problems in protected areas and possible solutions

摘要: Abstract Problems and correlates of success in the conservation Africa’s rain forests were evaluated for 16 protected areas 11 countries, representing approximately half all this biome. Data obtained from questionnaires, published unpublished accounts, direct observations. Despite numerous problems, conserved indigenous forest biodiversity more effectively than did alternative land uses. More suffered extensive ecological isolation. Effective management was seriously compromised by inadequate funding government support. Dense human populations, often resulting immigration, constituted major threats to areas. Perceived greatest large surrounded similar habitat with strong public support, effective law enforcement, low population densities, substantial support international donors. Contrary expectations, area not directly correlated employment benefits neighboring community, education, clubs, or presence extent integrated development programs. Studies are needed better understand what shapes positive pubic attitude towards because none conventional outreach programs attitude. We also identify apparent deficiencies foreign assistance these The single most important short-term strategy considered be improvement enforcement effectiveness through greater technical financial Nine medium-term strategies identified, including provision adequate secure long-term funding, establishing research monitoring programs, developing appropriate Long-term deal two ultimate causal factors, mainly attitudes value systems, stabilizing populations. Future is contingent upon contingencies mandating realistic performance standards.