Biprospecting for wealth and biodersity conservation: Case of Mondia Whytei commercialization around Kakamega forest ecosystem in Kenya

Abstract

This paper is a review of bioprospecting activities on Mondia Whytei Plant Species, achievements and impacts on livelihood and biodiversity Conservation in western Kenya since the project funding by African Academy of Sciences (AAS) froml998. Bioprospecting is viewed as a useful tool in protection and commercialization of indigenous knowledge for improved livelihoods and biodiversity conservation. It has been recommenl;led that bioprospecting in developing countries should be operated on a commercial scale if it is to add value to biodiversity, make use of indigenous knowledge and also improve livelihoods of resources owners (Weiss et aI1998). Successful bioprospecting frameworks through partnerships are recommended to enhance maximum benefit, which should equitably be distributed to resource owners. Findings of AAS funded project on Mondia Whytei raised the value and awareness of these species as haVing potential for commercialization, enhancing biodiversity conservation and also improving community livelihoods (Mukonyi et aI2002). This has led to aggressive Mondia whytei cultivation, processing and marketing through established bioenterprises in western parts of Kenya. Community based Mondia processing has been established in Kakamega, serving various Mondia growing farmers in Kakamega forest ecosystem. In the year 2000/ about 10 groups/ with about 500 farmers had been reached, but in 2003/ 67 youth groups/ 98 women groups, 61 church group and 16 school clubs had been reached: Given dynamic nature of community structures, commercialization of research findings is being channeled through the established community based institution. Certification procedures have been put in place to ensure sustainable harvesting both from the wild and farms. The review paper shows how the results of Mondia bioprospecting is contributing to improved livelihoods of communities around Kakamega forest and as well as enhancing biodiversity conservation of Kakamega ecosystem. Findings shows for a successful commercialization of medicinal plants, there is need for funds, values addition, and market access and market structure to be in place. Therefore partnership between community (resource owners, of both knowledge and materials), private entrepreneurs and researchers in well defined framework is important to drive bioprospecting in order to realize positive impacts on livelihoods and conservation