EANSO East African Nature and Science Organization Journals
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Remote Sensing Applications in Wetland Conservation and Management: A Literature Review
Full text linkWetlands, dynamic interfaces between land and water, serve as biodiversity hotspots and vital providers of ecosystem services, including water purification, flood control and carbon sequestration. However, rapid degradation from urbanisation, agriculture and resource extraction necessitates urgent and effective conservation strategies. This literature review synthesises global studies from 1999 to 2023 to evaluate the role of remote sensing technology in wetland conservation and management. Using a systematic literature review approach, peer-reviewed articles were selected based on their application of satellite imagery, aerial photography, LiDAR, SAR, object-based image analysis (OBIA) and machine learning techniques for wetland mapping, monitoring and management. The analysis reveals that remote sensing enables accurate boundary delineation, wetland-type identification and long-term change detection, with hybrid optical-SAR-LiDAR approaches and Random Forest classifiers consistently achieving the highest accuracy. Continuous monitoring effectively tracks land-cover shifts, vegetation health and hydrological dynamics, while integration with multi-criteria decision tools (AHP-TOPSIS) supports conservation prioritisation. Results highlight significant advancements in national-scale wetland mapping and predictive modelling of future loss, yet persistent gaps remain in satellite-ground data fusion, standardised classification systems, optimal temporal sampling and policy translation. The review concludes that remote sensing has become an indispensable, cost-effective tool for evidence-based wetland conservation worldwide, including in data-scarce regions like East Africa. Recommendations include: (1) adopting combined optical-radar-LiDAR workflows as standard practice, (2) developing regionally harmonised wetland classification frameworks, (3) promoting community-ground-truthed validation, (4) establishing open-access wetland monitoring platforms for Africa, and (5) strengthening collaboration between remote sensing experts, ecologists and policymakers to ensure research directly informs restoration and protection strategies
Decentralisation Policy: Advantages and Risks for the Conservation of Protected Areas in Burkina Faso
Full text linkMost African countries have had experience with centralised governments for a long time. Centralised administration has shown its limitations in delivering quality public services at the local level. Due to the unsatisfactory results of the policy of centralisation and the desire to adapt to international development strategies, some developing countries began to introduce a policy of decentralisation. According to Law N°2004-055/AN of 21 December 2004 on the General Code of Territorial Authorities (CGCT), Burkina Faso has made the protection of forest resources a priority in its natural resource conservation policies. This study aims to analyse the level of implementation and the consequences of decentralisation politics in the field of protected areas in Burkina Faso. The study field is the PONASI ecological complex that includes the National Park of Pô, the Nazinga game ranch, the Sissili classified forest and 11 village areas of hunting interest. Interviews and field surveys reveal that there are a number of key factors that discourage local residents from getting involved in the fight against the degradation of the complex's resources. These include the lack of transparency and equity in the distribution of revenues from the operation of the complex and its buffer zones. The involvement of local and regional authorities in the management of natural resources can pose a threat to the conservation of these resources. In fact, some local elected representatives may be reluctant to invest and not make a return on these investments in the short term during their electoral term. Thus, it would be important to set up an independent supervisory body to ensure equitable redistribution and transparency in the management of the protected area. Local communities, through their representatives, must participate effectively in decision-making bodies relating to the protected area
Determinants of Electoral Success of Internally Displaced Persons Candidates under a Closed-List Proportional Representation System: Evidence from Bossaso, Puntland, Somalia
Full text linkThe paper focuses on the conditions that lead to the success of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) candidates in the local council elections in the closed-list proportional representation of Bossaso, Somalia. It evaluates the role played by party politics, party ranks of candidates in the party lists, and voter turnout as far as the electoral performance of the IDP candidates is concerned. The explanatory mixed-method research design was used. The structured questionnaire was carried out on 382 IDP voters who participated in the study and were selected and sampled proportionately (22 camps out of 22 IDP camps in Bossaso). The qualitative data were collected in 10 major interviews with key informants, including IDP candidates, political party leaders, host community leaders, election commission officials, and civil society observers. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, and thematic analysis with the aid of NVivo was applied to analyse qualitative data. The findings indicate that there are consistent and prevailing trends in the data sources. Most of the respondents found deficiency in political party support to be a significant limitation to IDP candidates (62.3 per cent), and a structural obstacle (58.1 per cent) associated with electoral qualifications and position on party lists. Voting patterns also discriminated against IDP contenders, with 55.0 per cent of IDP voters reporting that they favoured candidates who belonged to the host community. The position in party lists became one of the most important parameters: 58.1% of the IDP candidates got positions in the low ranks (11th and below), whereas only 13.1% got top-rank positions (1–3). Qualitative results explain these outcomes by clan membership, elite domination of party nomination procedures, and attitudes towards IDPs as non-native residents, whereas inclusive nomination strategies by parties and civil society participation were found to be enabling. On the whole, the discussion reveals that the marginalisation of IDP candidates in Bossaso is mostly systematic in nature, and systematic electoral and party-specific changes are necessary to facilitate more inclusive localisation of governance in Puntland
Assessment of Mobile Payment Method as Alternative to Cash Payment: SMEs Perspective in Morogoro Municipal, Tanzania
Full text linkThe rapid expansion of mobile payment systems has transformed financial transactions globally, offering convenience, security, and financial inclusion. Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Tanzania, has emerged as a leader in mobile financial services; however, cash remains the dominant payment method for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This study assessed mobile payment methods as alternatives to cash payments among SMEs dealing with agricultural products in Morogoro Municipal, Tanzania. Guided by the Push-Pull-Mooring (PPM) theory of migration, the research employed a descriptive design with a qualitative approach, surveying 286 randomly selected entrepreneurs across three major markets. Data were collected through researcher-administered questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regression. Findings revealed that while mobile money account ownership is nearly universal (99%), mobile payments are primarily used for bill payments, airtime purchases, and money transfers, with limited adoption for purchasing goods. Key factors influencing switching intention included transaction costs, perceived security, social efficacy, awareness, ease of use, law enforcement, and relative advantage. Despite high mobile money penetration, SMEs continue to prefer cash for daily transactions, reflecting barriers such as low merchant acceptance and trust issues. The study concludes that reducing transaction costs, enhancing security, and strengthening regulatory enforcement could accelerate SME adoption of mobile payments, thereby promote financial inclusion and reducing risks associated with cash handling. 
Effect of Organic AmendmenSts on Growth, Yield, and Nutrient Uptake of Tomatoes
Full text linkThis study evaluated the effects of different organic amendments, goat manure, organo yield fertiliser, coffee husks, and their combination on the growth, yield, and nutrient uptake of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) at NARO–NaCRRI, Wakiso, Uganda. The experiment was laid out in a randomised complete block design (RCBD) with five treatments and three replications. Growth parameters assessed included plant height, number of leaves, and number of branches, while yield parameters considered were number of fruits and fruit weight. Nutrient uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca) was determined from leaf, stem, and fruit samples. The results indicated that all organic amendments significantly improved tomato growth and yield compared with the control treatment. Goat manure produced the tallest plants, whereas organo yield fertiliser resulted in a higher number of branches. The combined treatment enhanced leaf production. Yield parameters, including fruit number and fruit weight, were higher under goat manure, organo yield fertiliser, and the combined treatments. Nutrient uptake was highest under coffee husks and the combined treatments. Overall, the findings show that the use of organic amendments improves tomato productivity and nutrient availability, highlighting their potential for sustainable tomato production in Ugand
Construction of Masculinities in Special Purpose Gusii Oral Poetry
Full text linkConditioning of the human psyche into the societal collective consciousness is a continuous process, and special purpose oral poetry is one of the vehicles for this conditioning because of its versatility. Indeed, its rhythm, harmony and the inbuilt ability to present arguments coherently make it a powerful force in moulding public opinion. Therefore, the choice of Gusii special purpose oral poetry as a vehicle for interrogating the construction and nature of Gusii masculinities is hinged on the premise that despite its versatility and efficacy, it has not received sufficient scientific attention. The main objective of the study was to determine the various types of masculinities constructed by Gusii special-purpose oral poetry. This paper examines a sample of Gusii special purpose oral poems as semiotic systems and discourses of encoded signs that embody the Gusii masculinities. In the analysis of the poems, this study has used an eclectic theoretical framework developed from Chandler's (2005) strands of semiotics, the sociological literary theory strands by Rosenblatt (1968) and Albrecht (1978) and the Althusserian (1971) tenets of Marxism. This study uses the analytical study design. Secondary data was obtained from a review of published and unpublished works. Primary data was the textual analysis of sixteen oral poems, which is thirty percent of the poems purposively collected from various sources. Three types of Gusii masculinities were established in the analysis, and they include: the masculinity of male hegemony, the masculinity of familial and communal defence and the masculinity of material provision. The study is significant in the sense that it contributes intellectually towards the understanding of the role of oral poetry as a vehicle for human socialisation. Ultimately, the findings enhance trans-gender and intercultural relations as well as form a basis for related studies
Stem Quality and Wood Basic Density of Eucalyptus Species Grown at Wino Forest Plantation, Ruvuma Region, Tanzania
Full text linkUnderstanding variation in stem form and wood basic density (WBD) is essential for selecting Eucalyptus species suited to saw timber, pole production, and bioenergy in Tanzania. This study quantified differences in stem straightness, forking, damage, and WBD among 40 Eucalyptus entries (38 species/provenances and two GC hybrid clones) in an eight-year replicated trial at Wino Forest Plantation, southern Tanzania. Stem quality traits were visually scored and combined into a Composite Stem Quality Score (CSQS), while WBD was determined from breast-height increment cores using the gravimetric method. Statistical analyses revealed significant genetic variation. Stem straightness and forking differed highly significantly (χ²(78) = 950.0 and χ²(78) = 156.6, respectively; p < 0.001), whereas damage showed no significant variation (p = 0.971), indicating uniform environmental effects. WBD also varied strongly (F(39, 120) = 7.82, p < 0.001), ranging from 388 kg m⁻³ (E. argophloia) to 723 kg m⁻³ (E. biturbinata). A weak negative correlation (r = –0.249, p = 0.121) between CSQS and WBD suggested a mild trade-off between stem form and wood density. The highest straightness (>90%) was observed in E. cloeziana, GC15_GRL, and selected E. grandis provenances, while E. alba and E. globulus had the lowest (<15%). Forking was minimal in GC15_GRL, E. grandis (New F), and E. dunnii, and damage remained below 3% in top entries like GC15_GRL and GC584_GRL. CSQS ranged from 9.0 (GC15_GRL, E. grandis (New F) to 7.4 (E. alba). Integrating stem form and WBD, GC15_GRL, E. grandis (New F), GC584_GRL, E. cloeziana, and E. dunnii are recommended for saw logs and poles. In contrast, high-density species such as E. biturbinata and E. camaldulensis are better suited for structural applications and bioenergy. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for species selection and site matching in Ifinga and comparable Tanzanian environments
Evaluation of Physical and Chemical Variables of River Water Quality in River Thanantu Sub-Catchment
Full text linkAgrochemicals are widely used to boost agricultural productivity, yet their intensive and often indiscriminate application has become a major contributor to water pollution, threatening aquatic ecosystems, public health, and sustainable resource use. In Kenya, rivers traversing agricultural landscapes are increasingly vulnerable to contamination from pesticides and fertilisers. This study evaluates the physical and chemical variables of river water quality in the river Thanantu sub-catchment, in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. The study employed an experimental research design. Water samples were collected from three sites upstream, tributary, and confluence, identified using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools. Sampling was carried out in both wet and dry seasons between October 2024 and April 2025 to capture seasonal variations. Duplicate water samples were collected and subjected to standard laboratory procedures for analysing turbidity, total suspended solids (TSS), temperature, pH, nitrates, and total phosphorus. Agricultural practices within the sub-catchment were also assessed through questionnaires administered to farmers, key informant interviews with agricultural officers and community leaders, and transect walks for field observations. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and regression analysis to test for spatial and seasonal differences. Water quality analysis showed significant seasonal variation, with higher turbidity values (14.1 NTU upstream, 22.6 NTU tributary, and 30.9 NTU downstream) and elevated TSS levels (65.72 mg/L in the dry season and 111.23 mg/L in the wet season). Nutrient concentrations also differed significantly across seasons, with total nitrogen (p = 0.008) and total phosphorus (p = 0.038) being higher during the wet season due to increased surface runoff. The study concluded that intensive agrochemical use is a key driver of water quality degradation in the Thanantu sub-catchment, with impacts exacerbated during the wet season. Current river pollution management strategies are inadequate to address the problem. It is recommended that the County Government, in collaboration with national agencies, implement integrated agrochemical management programs, strengthen enforcement of environmental regulations, and promote farmer awareness on sustainable practices. Longitudinal monitoring of pesticide residues in water, sediments, and aquatic organisms is also necessary to track cumulative impacts and inform evidence-based interventions
Legal Status of Cryptocurrency in Nigeria and Legality of Legal Practitioners Engaging in Crypto: Evaluating the Ethical Rule against Trade or Business
Full text linkPrior to the Investment and Securities Act 2025, which repealed the former Act of 2007, cryptocurrency was not legally recognised in Nigeria, but under the current Act, it now has a legal backing. Consequently, Nigerians, including legal practitioners, can legally participate in cryptocurrency trading, subject to being taxed under the new tax legislation, which would come into force in January 2026. One of the questions this article intends to address is whether a practising legal practitioner can be involved in cryptocurrency transactions. If the answer is in the affirmative, would that not amount to involvement in trade or business, which the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners prohibit? If the answer is in the negative, would that not amount to depriving such a legal practitioner of the acquisition of a digital asset, since cryptocurrency is legally regarded as a digital asset? This paper addresses the above questions and considers the importance of trade or business as stated in one of the regulations governing legal practice. It evaluates the ethical rule against trade or business in relation to cryptocurrency. It also formulates recommendations for participation in the acquisition of digital assets by practising legal practitioners without breaching the ethical rule
Balanced Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium Application Enhances Plant Tissue Nutrient Budgets and Grain Yield in Rice
Full text linkRice (Oryza sativa L.) production on smallholder farms remains limited due to imbalanced fertiliser use, which hampers nutrient recovery and reduces plant growth and yield. This study aimed to enhance nutrient accumulation, growth, and grain yield in rice through targeted nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) fertilisation. A field experiment was conducted in February 2025 at the Lower Moshi Irrigation Scheme in Tanzania using fourteen NPK treatments and the variety TXD 306. Baseline soil fertility was assessed from samples collected at 0–30 cm depth, and plant growth, nutrient uptake, and yield data were recorded at booting and maturity. Results showed that fertilisation significantly (p < 0.05) influenced nutrient concentrations, uptake, and yield. At booting, the treatment with 300 kg N ha-1 + 20 kg P ha-1 + 25 kg K ha-1 produced the highest leaf N concentration (10.9%) and N uptake (370.3 kg ha-1), while P and K uptake peaked at 13.8 kg ha-1 and 20 kg ha-1, respectively. At maturity, N, P, and K uptake increased to 555.6, 26.1, and 97.6 kg ha-1, respectively. The same NPK combination produced the highest grain yield (6.5 t ha-1) with 171 spikelets per panicle. Excessive N (360 kg ha-1) lowered grain yield to 1.4 t ha-1 despite vigorous vegetative growth. Results indicate that balanced N, P, and K application enhances nutrient uptake and grain yield, while overusing nitrogen hampers production. Optimised nutrient management provides a practical approach to boost rice productivity in similar agroecological setting