Tourist Agroforestry Landscape from the Perception of Local Communities: A Case Study of Rwenzori, Uganda

Local communities in Ruboni, Uganda, exhibit a strong affinity for the agroforestry landscapes surrounding Rwenzori Mountains National Park, despite ecological and socio-economic pressures threatening land use sustainability. The study reveals that while cultivated features are less central to residents' perceptions of their environment compared to natural elements, both are perceived as beautiful. Residents also express a desire for improved human-engineered facilities, indicating a nuanced relationship with their landscape. This research underscores the need for an integrated land governance model that balances strict protection within the park with more flexible land use outside, addressing current challenges to sustainability.

Iacopino, S., Piazzi, C., Opio, J., Muhwezi, D. K., Ferrari, E., Caporale, F., & Sitzia, T. (2022). Tourist Agroforestry Landscape from the Perception of Local Communities: A Case Study of Rwenzori, Uganda. Land, 11(5), 650. https://doi.org/10.3390/land11050650