ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECT OF ENCROACHMENT ON GRAZING ON HERDSMEN LIVESTOCK IN KANO STATE

ABSTRACT

This study assesses the effects of land encroachment on grazing in Kibiya Local Government Area (LGA) of Kano State, focusing on its impact on livestock health, productivity, and the socio-economic well-being of herdsmen. The research highlights the increasing encroachment of agricultural land, urbanization, and infrastructure development on traditional grazing areas, leading to reduced grazing land availability and escalating conflicts between farmers and herders. A mixed-method approach was employed, with data collected from 150 herdsmen through structured questionnaires and interviews. The findings indicate that land encroachment significantly reduces grazing land, adversely affecting livestock health, leading to malnutrition, lower birth rates, and higher mortality among cattle. Additionally, herders reported a significant decrease in income and increased food insecurity due to reduced livestock productivity. The study also reveals that existing government policies aimed at mitigating encroachment are largely ineffective, with a majority of respondents unaware of or dissatisfied with these policies. Statistical analysis confirmed that land encroachment significantly impacts livestock productivity, socio-economic outcomes, and the effectiveness of land-use policies. The study concludes that urgent interventions, including the establishment of designated grazing zones, community-based land-use management, improved policy enforcement, and increased public awareness, are necessary to address land encroachment and support the sustainability of pastoralism in the region. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of the socio-economic challenges faced by herders in Nigeria and offer recommendations for more inclusive and effective land management strategies.

 

Keywords: land encroachment, grazing, herdsmen, livestock health, socio-economic impact, Kibiya LGA, land-use policies, Kano State.