The impacts of land use and land cover dynamics on natural resources and rural livelihoods in Dedza District, Malawi

Abstract

The sustainable management of natural resources requires critical understanding of land use and land cover changes and how these changes impact natural resources and rural livelihoods. This study examined the impacts of LULC changes on natural resources and rural livelihoods of Central Malawi. The study used an integrated approach combining remote sensing, household surveys consisting of structured and semi-structured questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Local communities perceived that LULC changes have resulted in the decline of agricultural land (57.3%), crop production (82.8%) and forest cover (87.4%) In response to observed LULC changes, respondents deployed short-term coping strategies such as seeking piecework opportunities and the use of savings and credits. The study has provided evidence that LULC changes have led to significant losses in natural resources, with serious consequences for rural livelihoods in Dedza. The study has contributed to better understanding of the complicated human-environment interaction in Malawi.

Keywords:

• Word
• LULC cover
• livelihoods
• local perceptions
• coping strategies
• shocks

Acknowledgments

This research study was supported by various organizations and stakeholders. We are very grateful to all farmers and the enumerators who took part in the research. Thanks are also due to Harold Chisale for proofreading the manuscript.

Additional information

Funding

We would also like to thank the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), the University of Pretoria, the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa, and the Schlumberger Foundation through its Faculty for the Future Program for financial support to the study.