Landscape dynamics and analysis of anthropogenic factors of deforestation and forest degradation in Lodja and Lomela territories in Sankuru Province, DRC

Abstract

The Sankuru province, in its Lodja and Lomela territories, constitutes a vast forest province, rich in biodiversity. However, the province’s forest ecosystems are undergoing changes because of human activities. This study uses remote sensing, cartography and landscape ecology analysis tools to quantify landscape dynamics and analyze the anthropogenic drivers behind these dynamics in Lodja and Lomela. Evolutionary trends in land use were quantified through the proportion of classes in the study area. The results obtained indicate a loss of 9.23% of dense forest between 2013 and 2023, with a significant increase in degraded forest and the rural complex. However, the landscape studied remains predominantly forest-dominated, although human impact is beginning to make itself felt. The main deforestation factors identified in the region are tree felling, vegetation fire, agriculture (slash-and-burn) and hunting. These factors are variably distributed in relation to villages in the landscape, so that agriculture, logging and fire are generally practiced in areas close to villages, while hunting is practiced far from villages. Our observations imply the need for land-use policies and actions that can involve all stakeholders in forest ecosystem management.