TITLE:
Institutional Management of Community Forests and Environmental Sustainability in Gabon
AUTHORS:
Louis Bertrand Ogoula Ikinda, Jean Felix Mabiala, Philemon Nsi Ella
KEYWORDS:
State Involvement, Community Forests, Environmental Sustainability, Gabon
JOURNAL NAME:
Theoretical Economics Letters,
Vol.15 No.1,
February
7,
2025
ABSTRACT: This chapter examines the influence of state institution involvement on environmental sustainability within community forest management in Gabon. Utilizing primary data collected through a questionnaire administered to 508 individuals across six provinces (Ogooué-Ivindo, Moyen-Ogooué, Ngounié, Estuaire, Woleu-Ntèm, Haut-Ogooué) from May to August 2024, the study employed a Tobit regression model for analysis. Results indicate a nuanced relationship, with some state interventions positively correlating with environmental sustainability while others exhibit negative impacts. Regional disparities were observed, particularly in Ogooué-Ivindo, where direct state intervention and collaborative participation demonstrated negative correlations with sustainability, likely stemming from conflicts between government representatives and local associations. These findings underscore the critical need for fostering consensus-building efforts among all stakeholders to ensure the long-term viability and success of community forests in Gabon.