GIS-Based multi-criteria site analysis for Simsim growing in Kitgum District

Abstract

This research project aims to employ a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based multi-criteria site analysis approach to determine suitable locations for simsim (sesame) cultivation in Kitgum District. The study focuses on providing valuable insights into the context of simsim production in the region, addressing the problem of identifying optimal sites for simsim growing, and emphasizing the importance of addressing this problem for agricultural development and sustainable land use planning. The background of the research project establishes the context by highlighting the significance of simsim cultivation in Kitgum District. Simsim is a valuable crop known for its oil-rich seeds, which have numerous applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. The region has favorable climatic conditions and agricultural potential, making it suitable for simsim production. However, the lack of appropriate site selection and decision-making tools hinders efficient land allocation for simsim cultivation. The research project aims to address the problem of identifying suitable sites for simsim growing. The selection of an appropriate site involves considering various factors, including soil properties, topography, climate, LULC. The absence of a systematic approach to site analysis leads to suboptimal land use practices, resulting in reduced productivity and inefficient resource utilization. Addressing the problem is of paramount importance for several reasons. Firstly, simsim cultivation offers a promising economic opportunity for farmers in Kitgum District, providing income diversification and poverty reduction. Secondly, efficient site selection can enhance agricultural productivity and contribute to food security in the region. Thirdly, by implementing sustainable land use practices, the research project can support environmental conservation and reduce land degradation. To conduct this study, various data sources were reviewed. These included geospatial data such as digital elevation models, soil maps, climate data, and land use/land cover data. Additionally, field surveys and interviews with local farmers and agricultural experts was conducted to gather information on traditional farming practices, crop performance, and local knowledge regarding simsim cultivation. The research methodology involved a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework integrated with GIS techniques. The MCDA was incorporated with expert knowledge and stakeholder preferences to assign weights to different criteria, such as soil PH, soil drainage, Elevation, rainfall, LULC and temperature. GIS was used to analyze and visualize the spatial data, generate suitability maps, and identify potential sites for simsim growing. LULC is the dominant factor followed by climatic (temperature and rainfall). The optimum vector overlay analysis results revealed that from the total area, 10.57% (42829.828 Hectares), 41.89% (169783.016 Hectares), 32.39% (131260.313 Hectares), and 15.16% (61433.461 Hectares) is highly suitable, moderately suitable, Marginally suitable and Not suitable for Simsim crop production, respectively This study demonstrated that based on physical land suitability analysis, the study area has huge potential for Simsim crop productio