Communities, institutions and natural resources: An assessment of case‐studies from KwaZulu Natal

Abstract

This article describes three community‐based organisations (CBOs) that were established to protect natural resources in parts of KwaZulu Natal. The object is to determine why some CBOs are more successful than others. The case‐studies (Dukuduku Forest, Shongweni Resources Reserve and Thukela Biosphere Reserve) are analysed and compared using criteria suggested by the theory of institutional economics. It is concluded that the rural poor are unlikely to comply with rules restricting their access to natural resources unless the benefits are obvious. Creating appropriate management institutions is a necessary first step, but it may also be necessary to subsidise their enforcement costs and development programmes.

Notes

Respectively Graduate Student and Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg. Financial assistance from the Centre for Science Development (CSD) is gratefully acknowledged.