Analyzing the Implications of Land use Changes on Urban Planning in Mamfe Sub-Division, South West Region, Cameroon

Land use change is necessary for economic development and social progress; however, it does not come without costs. The efforts to meet the needs of the burgeoning population and its development activities, have amplified stress on the earth’s land uses with significant implications on urban planning. This study seeks to examine the trends of land use changes, causes and associated implications in Mamfe Sub-division. The study made use of primary and secondary sources of data. Simple random sampling technique was used and 164 respondents were drawn from Ebekaw, Small Mamfe, Besongabang, Okoyong and Bachuo Neighbourhoods. Data was collected through interviews, field observation, questionnaires and Landsat imageries to examine the trends, causes and implications of land use changes in Mamfe Sub-division for 1980, 2000 and 2020.The results revealed that between 1980 and 2020 agriculture and built-up (infrastructural development) were identified as the dominant activities at the expense of vegetation cover. Population increase, institutional developments, socioeconomic organization, increase in income and affluence and technological development were seen as the main causes of land use changes. This was seen through the construction of roads, modern houses, thermal plan and increase in food production which has resulted to environmental implications such loss of biodiversity, land degradation and air and water pollution. In addition, to the socio-economic implications of land use changes such as limited livelihood opportunity, increase poverty and inequality, limited access to social services, displacement and migration, and land use conflicts. The study recommends a holistic, integrated land use planning and participatory approach that incorporates social, economic and environmental considerations as well as a meaningful engagement with affected communities and stakeholders.