Geo-spatial Technology for Tracking Climate Variability and its Effects A case Study Lake Magadi and Environs, Kenya

Contexte and Background: This study explores the impact of climate variability on environmental sustainability in Lake Magadi, Kenya, using geospatial technology. The research deployed satellite imagery and climate data, focusing on three key years: 2009, 2014, and 2023. Key indices, including the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), were calculated to assess the changes. The findings highlight increased vegetation cover, fluctuating water levels, and variations in temperature and rainfall patterns. The primary drivers of these changes included climate variability, land use changes and human activities. Correlations between vegetation, water surface extent, and climate data underscore the complex environmental dynamics of the area. The study recommendations included promoting sustainable land and water management, community involvement and climate-smart practices to enhance ecosystem resilience. This study provides insights for policymakers, researchers and local communities, contributing towards sustainable development and climate adaptation strategies, by integrating geospatial analysis to offers a replicable model for monitoring environmental changes in arid and semi-arid regions. Goal and Objectives: The primary objective of this study is to use geospatial technologies to monitor and analyze environmental changes in Lake Magadi and its surrounding areas. Methodology: The research deployed satellite imagery and climate data, focusing on three key years: 2009, 2014 and 2023. Key indices, including the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), were calculated to assess changes. Temperature and rainfall maps were produced, and field surveys provided ground truth data for validation Results: The study finding indicated a significant improvement in vegetation health and density from 2009 to 2014, with the maximum NDVI value increasing from 0.770913 to 0.835993. This suggests enhanced vegetation cover in the region.