Conservation Agreements and Rural Livelihoods: The Case of Communities Around the Wonegizi Protected Area in Lofa County, Liberia

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of conservation agreements (CAs) on rural livelihoods of rural communities using the Wonegizi Protected Area (WPA) in Lofa County, Liberia as a case study. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 238 respondents, to assess community attitudes towards conservation negotiations, the influence of CAs on household income, farming practices, and community participation in conservation activities. Results indicate that most respondents hold positive perceptions of the negotiation process, primarily when facilitated by NGOs, with farmers showing more substantial support than non-farmers.