"International Journal of Geography, Geology and Environment"

Wood fuel shortage has existed worldwide since the 1970s during oil energy crisis; accelerating wood fuels scarcity hence coping strategies. This study on local community based strategy for curbing wood fuel shortages was conducted in Nyamache Sub-county, Kisii County, Kenya. The study assessed the establishment of woodlots as an affordable strategy adopted by the households for wood fuel availability. The specific objective analyzed the coping strategies adopted by the households for curbing wood fuel shortages in the study area. Descriptive research design was adopted in gathering information on establishment of woodlots for wood fuel availability in the study area. It was based on binary-choice model. A sample size of 379 households selected from a target population of 26,458 people was used. The study employed stratified purposive and snowballing techniques of both probability and non-probability sampling designs in selection of informants. Data was collected by use of structured questionnaire, observation checklist, Focus Group Discussion and key informant interview guides. The study data was of both primary and secondary sources. The data were analyzed using frequency distribution tables, percentages, spearman’s rank correlation analysis and Chi-square. Chi-square test analyzed independent variables on establishment of woodlots against the dependent variables of pressure on wood fuel resources and wood fuels shortages. Statistical tables, charts, plates, maps and photographs were used to present the data. Establishment of woodlots for wood fuel availability was the most significant strategy adopted in Nyamache Sub-county at ( at df=3) at 0.05 as compared to other strategies. The study concluded that establishment of woodlots for wood fuel availability was significantly sustainable at ( 0.68<15.09 at df= 5) at 0.05. The researcher therefore, recommended that establishment of woodlots be adopted in the area, local communities engage in establishing woodlots and be positive in wood fuel scarcity alleviation strategies country wide and local politicians to sensitize households on woodlots established on their farms.