Assessing land degradation through a participatory approach in selected villages of the Kunene region, Namibia: Bridging scientific and local knowledge bases
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Date
2025
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
While scientific methods for assessing land degradation are well established, they
often overlook indigenous knowledge provided by local communities. This study
utilized a participatory approach to assess land degradation in Otjamaungu and
Otjimbundu villages in Kunene region, Namibia, which is among the regions
considerably affected by land degradation. Communities identified sites that they
perceived to represent five distinct degradation categories: very low, low, moderate,
high, and very high. For each category, three sites were selected, and within each site,
three plots measuring 20 m × 20 m were established. Vegetation assessments in each
plot included measurements of species richness, species diversity, plant density, total
basal area, regeneration capacity, and herbaceous cover. Soil assessment included
compaction, soil erosion and fertility. Furthermore, local perceptions on land
degradation was captured. Ecological results were compared with opinions and
perceptions by the communities regarding degradation. The results indicated that
community-defined degradation categories were strongly influenced by visible
vegetation cover, with denser vegetation typically associated with lower degradation
levels. Overall, scientific data largely aligned with community classifications.
Quantitative data were analysed using R Studio, while qualitative data were analysed
using thematic analysis. Significant differences in species richness, diversity, density,
total basal area, herbaceous cover and regeneration capacity were observed between
degradation categories in both villages (P<0.05). Interviews revealed that communities
primarily perceived land degradation through its impact on livestock, central to their
livelihoods, rather than through broader ecological consequences.. Perceptions of
degradation varied within villages, with some individuals demonstrating limited
understanding of its causes and manifestations . By combining scientific expertise with
local knowledge, this study enhances the understanding of land degradation in the
Kunene region, paving the way for more effective conservation and restoration efforts
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Environmental Science
Keywords
Land degradation, Degradation category, Local knowledge, Scientific knowledge, Pastoralists, Rangelands, Livestock, Namibia, University of Namibia