Abstract:
The Katonga catchment is one of the major catchments in Uganda that runs with in the districts of Kalungu, Bukomansimbi, Mpigi, Lwengo, Mubende, Ssembabule, Kamwenge, Kazo, Gomba, Mityana, Kassanda, Lyantonde, Kiruhura, Masaka, Kyotera and Butambala and is served by river Katonga and its tributaries, it’s covered by wetlands, lakes, forests, grasslands, built-up areas, agricultural fields, and barren lands. This study explores the land use and land cover dynamics of the Katonga catchment in Uganda over a two-decade period from 2001 to 2021. The study aims to analyze the changes in land use and land cover patterns within the catchment area, considering factors such as urbanization, agricultural expansion, deforestation, and natural resource management. Remote sensing data and geographic information systems (GIS) techniques are employed to assess the spatial and temporal changes in land use and land cover. The findings provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the Katonga catchment, offering essential information for sustainable land management, environmental conservation, and decision-making processes.
The study also investigates the drivers behind these changes, including human activities, climate variability, and policy interventions. By examining the dynamics of urban areas, agricultural lands, forests, wetlands, water bodies, and other land cover types, the research sheds light on the transformations occurring within the catchment.
By analyzing the various implications of these land use and land cover dynamics on ecological systems, biodiversity conservation, water resources, and overall environmental sustainability which include loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, loss of water quality among others, It emphasizes the need for integrated land management strategies that balance economic development with ecological integrity like agro forestry, sustainable agriculture, integrated watershed management, strengthening environmental laws and policies, collaboration with various ministries, NGOs, countries to protect the catchment.
