Role of Medicinal Plants in Sustaining Livelihoods, Socio-economic and Ecosystem Services: A Case study of Dibete Village, Botswana
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46325/afj.v10i1.191Keywords:
Medicinal plants, livelihoods, ecosystem services, sustainabilityAbstract
Numerous tree species of economic and cultural importance in Botswana are at risk due to excessive harvesting. Medicinal plants act as a bridge between traditional wisdom and modern science, yet their survival relies on meticulous management. Considering threats from both human activities and natural factors, the sustainability and resilience of medicinal plants have gained significant attention recently. The article delves into the vital importance of medicinal plants, the obstacles they encounter, and the pressing necessity for conservation and ethical harvesting practices to secure a sustainable future for these plants and the communities reliant on them. A total of thirty-seven (n = 37) medicinal plant species were recognized as crucial for local livelihoods, whether for personal use or trade. The research concludes by emphasizing the respondents' heightened reliance on medicinal plants, which can be linked to the enduring traditional knowledge, accessibility, affordability, and cultural relevance of these plants.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Keaitse MALEBESWA, Melusi RAMPART, Gofaone RAMOTOKARA, Bolokang KGOSIDINTSI, Kamogelo MAKGOBOTA, Witness MOJEREMANE
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