An assessment of the impact of urbanization on land use in Kampala a case study of Kawempe Division.

Abstract

This study aimed at assessing and investigating the impacts of urbanization on land use in Kawempe Division, Kampala City. To this end, the exiting land use patterns, land use practices and factors for urbanization were investigated. A total of 20 people who were involved in the 11 study were interviewed using questionnaires. Observation method was also used to visualize the impacts of urbanization on land use. The study findings indicated that increased economic activities and population increase are the key factors for the urbanization of Kawempe Division and these are closely followed by increased rates of rural urban migration. The dominant land use in this area was commercial developments followed by human settlement that includes housing for the increased population that seeks employment in this urban area. This study has established that urbanization in the area has resulted to land use changes from bare land to build up areas. Based on the study findings, it was concluded that urbanization and its associated development activities are responsible for the land use changes. As such, it was recommended that there is need for government and relevant stakeholders to revisit and make operational the policy frameworks in place such as the urban development and town and country planning acts. Doing this may contribute to sustainable land use practices in the area.