A review of community-based strategies for addressing bush encroachment in the semi-arid savannah rangelands of Southern Africa

Abstract

There are distinct management approaches for communal properties and commercial agricultural properties concerning bush encroachment. The utilisation of community-based knowledge possesses the capacity to enhance our comprehension of localised circumstances and provide valuable experience in endeavours targeted at supporting local communities. The perception of bush encroachment control as a sustained endeavour rather than a singular occurrence is of utmost importance. This may include considering other solutions that may not always be the most convenient or cost-effective. The objective of this study was to evaluate the predominant methods employed by rural communities in semi-arid savannah rangelands in Southern Africa to manage bush encroachment. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a literature search was conducted in the field of communal strategies of bush encroachment management. The findings of this study indicate that the predominant and commonly utilised management strategy for mitigating bush encroachment includes the extraction of plants for medicinal applications, followed by firewood extraction. Indigenous and traditional knowledge systems have played a pivotal role in communal bush encroachment management. It is recommended that communal approaches to bush encroachment management in Southern Africa’s semi-arid savannah rangelands harness the power of indigenous knowledge while benefiting from modern scientific insights, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable management practices. This can be accomplished by fostering community involvement and active participation, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, enhancing skills and expertise, preserving and safeguarding indigenous wisdom through documentation, and harmoniously blending traditional and scientific methodologies.