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.