GIS-Based Land Use and Land Cover Change Assessment Around Assosa District, Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia

Land, with its intricate blend of geological, topographical, hydrological, and ecological elements, reflects the interplay of natural processes and human activities. In Ethiopia, traditional agricultural practices often lack systematic planning based on land suitability and physical characteristics, hindering agricultural productivity and economic progress. Understanding shifts in land use and cover is crucial for comprehending broader global transformations. Early studies have unveiled significant alterations in land use and cover between 2009 and 2013. Our investigation extends from 2013 to 2023, employing Landsat 8 imagery at three-year intervals (2013, 2018, and 2023) to analyze five key land cover categories: forests, farmland, built-up areas, barren land, and water bodies. Notably, farmland and built-up areas witnessed substantial expansion over these periods, juxtaposed with a significant decline in forest cover. Forests decreased by 27% from 2013 to 2018, with an additional 7% decrease from 2018 to 2023. Conversely, farmland expanded by 19% from 2013 to 2018 and by 2% from 2018 to 2023, while built-up areas saw respective increases of 4% and 10% over the same periods. These trends underscore potential environmental challenges if unaddressed. Effective land management strategies are crucial to mitigate adverse impacts on ecosystems, agricultural productivity, and overall socio-economic stability. By integrating scientific insights with sustainable practices, we can navigate the intricate dynamics of land use, paving the way for a resilient and prosperous future.