The Impact of Human Migration on Land Degradation in Mpanda District, Katavi Region in Tanzania

Abstract

The study on the impact of human migration on land degradation was conducted in fiveselected wards of Mpanda district. Over the years, human population has been increasing in Mpanda district. The increase in population have changed land use systems that have caused a reduced land cover and subsequent land degradation. The main objective of this study was to examine the relationship between the increase in human population and land degradation over a period of 30 years from 1985 to 2015. Specific objectives of the study sought to: determine the extent of land degradation emanating from human activities, to assess the relationship between and human activities on land use and land cover changes, to assess and describe the types of land conservation and management measures that are practiced in Mpanda district. To achieve these objectives, the study utilized three land-sat satellite imageries (1985 TM, 2000 ETM and 2015 ETM+) that were processed and analyzed using GIS software to produce GIS maps to detect and quantify land cover changes in Mpanda district during the years: from 1985, and 2000 to 2015. A field observation and household survey was also carried out in the study area to identify the activities that are responsible for land use changes and degradation. The results showed that since the 1985 to 20015, Mpanda district has experienced a rapid growth in human population density during 30 years since 1985. The growing trend of the population and consequent demand for food, energy, and area for settlement and agriculture have considerably altered land use practices, reduced natural vegetation cover stratum and severely caused land degradation at large. In order to correct this anomaly,the local population can be sensitized on the importance of growing trees and seedlings can be planted in nurseries for onward transmission to these lands. Similarly, pastoralist can be encouraged to practice zero grazing in a bid to manage grazing lands. The movement of people with their livestock should also be restricted to control the rate of vegetation growth. Such measures will prevent land exhaustion that is a constant threat to the biodiversity of the environment.