Land Cover Dynamics in the Kirisia Forest Ecosystem, Samburu County, Kenya

background

Throughout Africa, forest ecosystems play a significant role in supporting local livelihoods. In Kenya specifically, these ecosystems contribute to economic development while also improving watershed dynamics. Yet, these ecosystems have experienced significant changes over the decades. This study aims to quantify these land changes in the Kirisia forest ecosystem from 1973 to 2015. 

Research Goals & Methods

This study had three distinct objectives: 1) analyse and characterize the current status of land cover in the Kirisia forest ecosystem using remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) 2) analyse recent land cover changes in the watershed and 3)compare the land cover change with other areas in Kenya. The authors use multi-temporal satellite imagery to achieve these objectives.

Conclusions & Takeaways

The authors found that there was a significant increased in the built environment and a significant decrease in forest cover in the region over the 42 year period. This is a common trend through out Kenya, which will Iikely have detrimental impacts on the water services throughout the country. The authors provide recommendations to curb land cover change in the region which is projected to increase water scarcity.