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Analysis of Spatial and Socio-Ecological Transformations around Chuka University Environs Using Remote Sensing and GIS

Dickson Kinoti Kibetu, Otieno Collins Omondi

Abstract


Universities typify pockets of complex man-land interaction especially in developing countries where these results to localised population growths, urbanisation and economic development. Establishment of university colleges in towns and peri-urban areas across Kenya is driving spatial, social and ecological transformations. The objective of this study was to analyse implications of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) changes on built and non-built environment around Chuka University’s Main campus located at Ndagani village. These changes were perceived to be the primary driving forces behind the growing commercialised land based development ventures. This study used GIS and remote sensing to analyse dynamisms of this campus neighbourhood’s historical and current built-up and non-built environments between 2003 and 2013. Remote sensing provided multi-temporal data on processes and patterns of natural and human activities, while GIS was used for mapping and analysing LULC change patterns. The analyses showed an increase in built-up areas, peri-urban agricultural land uses and a decline in areas under vegetation and open land within the 10 year period reviewed. All these dynamisms were attributed to the low elevation geomorphic advantages of the area, proximity to the main highway and the growing university’s students and staff population.

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