Environmental change and dryland management in Machakos district, Kenya 1930-90: conservation profile

Abstract

The problems of natural resources degradation in Machakos District, Kenya, are summarized and a soil and water management profile is developed in order to identify effective interventions. Soil and water conservation measures on crop land have been carried out more vigorously than on grazing land. Well designed, constructed and maintained terraces can control run-off and soil loss but lack of tools, skilled labour and cash, and droughts followed by heavy rains form limitations to erosion control and the management capacity of the district. A more efficient redistribution of population among high and low potential areas is recommended, whereas refinement of conservation and other supporting technologies must be promoted as well as increased employment opportunities.