Assessing Land Cover and Land Use and Change in the Eastern Mau Forest Reserve, Kenya

Abstract

The Eastern Mau Forest Reserve, spanning 155,087 hectares in Kenya's Great Rift Valley, is vital for regional water resources and ecosystems as part of the larger Mau Forest Complex. This report explores its ecological status, socio-economic dynamics, governance challenges, and conservation needs, aiming to understand and address the complexities of this critical ecosystem. The study uses an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating remote sensing, socio-economic assessments, and spatial analysis to investigate deforestation, habitat degradation, governance issues, and socio-economic disparities. The research focuses on sustainable land management and identifying the root causes of deforestation. Thematic maps, spatial analysis, and empirical data reveal significant land cover changes from 1984 to 2024, showing trends in forest cover, barren land, settlements, grasslands, and farmlands. Notably, dense forests initially declined due to deforestation but later recovered due to reforestation efforts. Settlements and agricultural expansion consistently influenced landscape dynamics, leading to conversions of forested areas into barren land and farmlands. Post-classification analysis shows significant transitions from dense forests to agricultural land and settlements, driven by socio-economic developments. The 2024 classification results reflect positive conservation outcomes, with forest recovery, but ongoing challenges like land degradation and urban expansion persist. The report proposes policy development and community engagement recommendations to enhance governance, livelihoods, and biodiversity conservation. By integrating research insights with practical realities, the study aims to inform evidence-based policies for the Eastern Mau Forest Reserve's sustainable management and restoration.