The Role of Social Inclusion in Restoring Communal Rangelands in Southern Africa: A Systematic Review of Approaches, Challenges, and Outcomes

Mhlangabezi Slayi (), Leocadia Zhou, Kgabo Humphrey Thamaga and Patrick Nyambo
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Mhlangabezi Slayi: Centre for Global Change (CGC), Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa
Leocadia Zhou: Centre for Global Change (CGC), Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa
Kgabo Humphrey Thamaga: Department of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa
Patrick Nyambo: Agricultural Research Council, Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants Institute, Private Bag X293, Pretoria 0001, South Africa

Land, 2024, vol. 13, issue 9, 1-25

Abstract: Rangeland restoration in southern Africa faces complex challenges that require the involvement of diverse social groups to ensure both ecological and social sustainability. This systematic review focuses on the role of social inclusion in rangeland restoration across multiple countries in the region, specifically examining the engagement of marginalized groups such as women, youth, and indigenous communities. We conducted a comprehensive search using the PRISMA approach, utilizing Scopus and other literature sources. Initially, we found 853 articles published between 2000 and 2024, which were subsequently screened down to 20 studies that met stringent inclusion criteria. This review identifies key strategies and outcomes associated with social inclusion in restoration efforts. Our findings reveal that participatory planning, gender-inclusive strategies, indigenous engagement, and capacity building are crucial for gaining community support, promoting social equity, and enhancing ecological resilience. However, challenges such as power dynamics, cultural norms, and resource constraints often impede the full realization of these inclusive practices. Despite these barriers, integrating local and indigenous knowledge and empowering marginalized groups significantly strengthens governance structures and leads to more sustainable restoration outcomes. Our review highlights the necessity of adopting holistic and inclusive approaches in rangeland restoration where social inclusion is not just a component but a central pillar of successful ecological management. It emphasizes the importance of social inclusion in the restoration of communal rangelands in southern Africa and provides insights into the approaches used, challenges faced, and outcomes achieved in incorporating social inclusion in rangeland restoration efforts. Our findings underscore the significance of collaborative efforts and social inclusion among local communities, policymakers, and stakeholders to achieve the sustainable restoration of communal rangelands in southern Africa.

Keywords: women empowerment; restoration strategies; land degradation; livestock productivity; participatory approach (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:gam:jlands:v:13:y:2024:i:9:p:1521-:d:1481042

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