Socio-environmental analysis of climate dynamics as experienced by the population living near the Masako Forest Reserve

A study on the socio-environmental analysis of climate dynamics as experienced by the population living near the Masako Forest Reserve was carried out in Masako village. 60 households were surveyed on the basis of a pre-elaborated questionnaire. The results reveal that at the Masako village level, the population perceives climate change through indicators such as early and late rains, high winds, high temperatures, erosions and seasonal disturbances. The most important impact of these climate changes is seen in agriculture where farmers refer to crops wilting for lack of water, the difficulty of burning at early rainfall and the proliferation of insect pests that result in a decline in agricultural production. Other sectors such as fishing, charcoal production and small scale trading are not spared. The entire surveyed population revealed that the climatic disturbances observed in their environment have negative impacts on the resources of the Masako Forest Reserve, such as the reduction of forest products other than wood (game, caterpillars, snails, etc.).

Keywords: Masako, Socio-environmental perception, climate risks, DR Congo.