Evaluating spatial and temporal changes in land cover in the riparian zone in Sironga wetland in Nyamira County, Kenya between 2009 and 2019

This study sought to evaluate spatial and temporal changes in land cover in the riparian zones in Sironga wetland in Nyamira County, Kenya between 2009 and 2019. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The study target population was 561 respondents. This included 11 key informants and 550 households in Nyamira County whose land borders the riparian areas from which a sample size of 151 respondents was drawn. The sample size included; 140 respondents selected through simple random sampling and 11 through purposive sampling. Questionnaires, interview schedules, observation schedules, satellite images and document analysis were used to collect data. Quantitative data collected was sorted, coded and analyzed with the help of statistical package of social scientist (SPSS) version 21. Qualitative data obtained was analyzed based on the themes drawn from study objectives and content for each listed. It is believed that the study findings will assist to improve local awareness of the importance of riparian zones and create positive perception among the riparian communities. This study could contribute in provision of data on riparian zones of wetlands in high agricultural potential areas in Kenya