Assessment of land degradation ‘on the ground’ and from ‘above’

Abstract Assessments of land degradation vary in methodology and outcome. The objective this study is to identify the state, extent patterns Eastern Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi Tanzania). More recently (2000s), satellite-based imagery remote sensing have been utilized magnitude processes at global, regional national levels. This involves use Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) derived from Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer data high-quality satellite Moderate Imaging Spectroradiometer. first complement with ground-level assessments evaluating scales. results based on NDVI measures show that occurred about 51%, 41%, 23% 22% terrestrial areas Tanzania, Malawi, Ethiopia respectively, between 1982 2016 periods. Some key hot spot include west southern regions Ethiopia, western part parts Tanzania eastern Malawi. To evaluate accuracy observations, ground-truthing was carried out through focus group discussions (FGDs). FGDs indicate an agreement remotely sensed information seven sites eight five six Ethiopia. Given significant degradation, appropriate action needed address it.