Analysis of Land Use Land Cover Changes of Okana Wetland Ecosystems in Lower Nyando River Basin, Kisumu County, Kenya

Daniel O. Odaro, Elias K. Ucakuwun & Fatuma Daudi
University of Eldoret
Email: DanielOdaro@hotmail.com

Abstract: Wetlands, like any other natural resource are exploited by the adjacent communities to sustain their livelihoods. The ecosystems have supported millions of livelihoods since time immemorial through their socio-cultural, economic and ecological values. However, the ecosystems have been steadily converted into other uses which are considered to have obvious benefits since the wetlands are perceived to be “wastelands”. The phenomenon is likely to have adverse impact on the wetland ecosystems thereby compromising their sustenance. Besides, the livelihoods of the riparian communities who depend on the ecosystems will be at stake. The study aimed at establishing the land use-land cover changes that have occurred over the years in Okana area in Nyando River basin, their impact on the ecosystems and the economic values of the wetlands to the adjacent communities. The study used various techniques in data acquisition and analysis. These include remote sensing analysis using LANDSAT satellite images and Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis using ArcGIS software, field surveys, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and Barbier’s tool for total economic value of resources. The study revealed that land use land cover changes were due to conversion of the wetlands into agricultural farmlands and human settlements, utilization of the resources contribute significantly to household income and also led to environmental consequences. From the study, appropriate environmental planning and management strategies were drawn, which if implemented will enhance sustainable use of the wetlands especially in the wake of the climate change phenomenon that threatens the existence of all facets of the environment.