Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on the analysis of the poverty status of forest dwellers in coastal communities. Forest dwellers living in coastal areas are often marginalized and face unique challenges that contribute to their impoverished conditions. The study aims to understand the factors that influence poverty among these communities and identify potential interventions to improve their socio-economic well-being. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data on the poverty status of forest dwellers. Quantitative surveys will be conducted to collect information on income levels, access to basic services, and household assets. Qualitative interviews will further explore the social and environmental factors that impact poverty in these communities. The study focuses on coastal communities to account for the specific challenges faced by forest dwellers in these areas. Coastal communities often rely on natural resources for their livelihoods, making them vulnerable to environmental changes and resource depletion. By examining the poverty status of forest dwellers in coastal regions, this research aims to provide insights into the complex interplay between environmental factors, economic conditions, and social dynamics affecting these communities. The findings of this research project are expected to contribute to the existing literature on poverty in forest-dependent communities, particularly in coastal areas. By identifying the key drivers of poverty among forest dwellers, policymakers and development practitioners can design targeted interventions to address the specific needs of these communities. Additionally, the study aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by forest dwellers in coastal regions and advocate for sustainable development practices that promote both environmental conservation and poverty alleviation. Overall, this research project seeks to shed light on the poverty status of forest dwellers in coastal communities and provide evidence-based recommendations for improving their socio-economic well-being. By understanding the underlying factors contributing to poverty in these communities, stakeholders can work towards creating more inclusive and sustainable development pathways that benefit both forest dwellers and the environment.

Project Overview

This study analyzed poverty status of forest dwellers in coastal communities of Ondo State, Nigeria. Ten communities were randomly selected in the coastal region of Ondo State. In the two local government areas that were selected, two sets of structured questionnaires were administered to ten randomly selected respondents in each of the communities visited. The result of the study shows that 60% of the respondent in both communities has no formal education. In Okitipupa, 50% of the respondents earn₦ 80,000-₦100,000 while 44% of the respondents in Ese-odo community earn between ₦60,000-₦80,000 per annum. This study also showed that 38% and 36% of the respondents in Ese-odo and Okitipupa community respectively have transportation problems. The Lorenz curve in the study show the cumulative income share against the percentage of forest dwellers indicates that there is inequality in the income of the respondents. Government should help provide good roads and health centers in the rural areas of the study area. This will help to solve transportation problem faced by many of the forest dwellers of the study area. By providing health centers, many of the respondents that are faced with ill-health problems will have access to better health services.