The transformation of tropical forests for agricultural land and extractive resource use will be one of the most serious threats to sub-Saharan forest cover during the 21^st century. This study used satellite imagery over a period of 18 years (1987-2005) to analyse the level and extent of land cover change in and around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP). Focus group discussions were conducted with local communities adjacent to the park to explore their perceptions on land cover change, the drivers behind it and benefit sharing programmes aimed at limiting anthropogenic impacts on the forest.

The results of analysis of satellite images over an 18 year period show that forest cover in the region of BINP has decreased by 9.8%. This deforestation has mainly taken place in the remaining forest fragments outside the national park. The high population density and rapid growth in the districts surrounding BINP is identified as the major underlying driver of the land cover change while the most significant agent of this change has been the community’s harvesting of timber for building materials and firewood. Although the benefit sharing programme of Multiple Use Zones (MUZs) has helped ease pressures on the forest and its resources, it needs to be updated in the coming years to maintain people’s interest. This should also be coupled with a scheme to encourage development of communal woodlots and alternative energy sources to reduce potential demands on the forest in future years.