Land-use Dynamics in Lupila Ward of Makete District in Southern Highlands of Tanzania

Abstract

This article examines Land-Use (LU) dynamics in Lupila ward of Makete District in Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Specifically, the purpose of this study is to track LU change in Lupila ward from 1984 to 2014. Geographical information system (GIS) was employed to track LU/Land-Cover (LU/LC) change from 1984 to 2014. The questionnaire, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), in-depth interview and field observations were used to supplement GIS. The data were collected from 87 respondents through questionnaire, FGDs and in-depth interview. Five LU/LC classes were identified, which are agriculture with scattered settlement, natural forests, woodlands, bushlands and grasslands. The identified LU/LC classes changed (increased and decreased) over time. Findings from respondents indicated that LU/LC change was mainly caused by the introduction of exotic tree species and decline in soil fertility. Based on the findings, the study recommends that it is imperative for the respective authority to introduce LU plan in each village so as to rescue resources like natural forests from being depleted.

Institutional Capacity of the Village Land Councils in Managing Land use Conflicts between Farmers and Pastoralists: across Case Analysis of the selected Districts in Tanzania

“…The choice was based on the prevalence of conflicts between pastoralists and farmers, as well as the presence of VLCs (NBS, 2021)). These regions have been addressed in literature as areas experiencing land use conflicts by (Loserian & Jeckoniah, 2018;Mwalimu & Matimbwa, 2019;Sanga, 2019), implying the need to assess the effectiveness of VLCs in resolving such conflicts.…”

Selected soil properties and small-holder dairy farmers perceptions on improved forage varieties in the Southern highlands of Tanzania

“…It seems farmers in the study area are already aware of this as some of them were cultivating pasture with other woody plants, that is, timber and avocado trees. There has been increased changes in land use as farmers are diversifying their income and engaging in the cultivation of multiple farm products (Sanga et al, 2021).…”