Title:
Challenges of Quantification and Valuation of Biological Assets: Case of East African National Parks in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda

Authors:
Prof Dr. Lucky Yona, Tanzania

Abstract:

Biological assets in East African national parks, including wildlife, forests, and ecosystems, are critical for ecological balance, tourism revenue, and socio-economic development. However, quantifying and valuing these assets face significant challenges due to methodological inconsistencies, data gaps, and the complexity of non-market ecosystem services. This study examines nine protected areas in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda using a desk-based mixed-evidence synthesis: quantitative values are drawn from reported secondary statistics and illustrative calculations, while qualitative evidence is synthesized from policy documents and published case studies. The findings therefore present reported, derived, and proxy values rather than a fully harmonized natural-capital account. The review identifies unreliable baseline data, valuation bias, weak source traceability, and political barriers, and recommends staged implementation of the SEEA Ecosystem Accounting framework, transparent valuation protocols, sensitivity analysis, and direct community participation in future primary research.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51505/IJEBMR.2026.10901