Assessment of the Causes and Effects of Deforestation in Lakes State of South Sudan

Deforestation is a serious global challenge which adversely affects the environment, human well-being and climate stability, especially in fragile ecosystems and threatens environmental resilience worldwide. Trees are important for the provision of forest products such as food and medicines and the regulation of temperatures, as well as preventing soil erosion and water loss in Lakes State. The objective of this study is to assess the causes and effects of deforestation in Lakes State of South Sudan, as well as the effectiveness of existing laws and policies in the governance of forest resources. This study employed a descriptive research design and purposive sampling was used to select 80 key informants who included forest officers, local farmers and community leaders. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings from the study reveal that the main causes of deforestation include cutting down trees for economic activities such as logging, expansion of subsistence agriculture, demand for fuel wood, urban expansion and recurrent wildfires. The effects include declining agricultural productivity, biodiversity loss, such as teak and mahogany, increased soil erosion and increased vulnerability of the community to the impacts of climate change. Even though there is the existence of forest laws and policies, their enforcement is weak due to inadequate public awareness and institutional capacity. Deforestation is occurring at an alarming rate and, if unaddressed, will adversely affect the environment and livelihoods. The study recommends that the government and relevant stakeholders implement alternative energy programs and stringent enforcement of forest conservation laws and policies. Promotion of the use of alternative energy, such as hydroelectric, solar and wind energy, could reduce reliance on wood-based energy sources, thus mitigating the effects of deforestation and climate change in Lakes State.