The role of environmental education in soil conservation and management in Kalisizo, Rakai district, Uganda

Abstract

This study examined the role of environmental education in soil conservation and management in Rakai District. Data were collected through a mixed methods approach involving the use of cross-sectional survey, focus group discussions and key informant interviews and was descriptively analysed. Findings indicate that over 90% of farmers practice soil conservation and management in one way or another using a combination of indigenous and ‘modern’ techniques. Adoption of soil conservation practices is perceived by many respondents (97.1%) to be influenced by a decline in soil quality and productivity. Environmental education has had a positive impact among 60% of the farmers in terms of adopting better soil and water conservation measures. This study has shown that providing farmers with learning opportunities leads to a gradual shift towards desired goals such as adoption of soil conservation and management. There is need to educate the public on the benefits of pro-activeness in soil and water conservation and management.