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Research Article
Smart Forestry, Digital Tools, Technologies, and Innovations for Sustainable Forest Management in Kenya
Benjamin Mutuku Kinyili*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
258-274
Received:
2 November 2025
Accepted:
18 November 2025
Published:
17 December 2025
Abstract: Smart forestry, the strategic use of digital tools, Earth Observation (EO) systems, drones, mobile GIS applications, and integrated data platforms and is becoming increasingly important for effective forest governance in Kenya. Forest ecosystems across the country face persistent pressures from illegal logging, charcoal production, encroachment, and climate-driven disturbances, creating a need for faster, more transparent, and data-driven management. In response, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and partners have adopted a suite of digital innovations including satellite-based forest-cover monitoring, drone-supported reconnaissance, mobile data-collection tools, and a national Forest Information System (FIS) that integrates licensing, real-time inventory, and automated alerts. These digital systems have already yielded measurable gains, including a documented reduction in illegal logging cases between 2020 and 2024 and greater participation of Community Forest Associations (CFAs) through mobile reporting of forest health, fire outbreaks, and encroachment. Pilot deployments in Kericho and Baringo show that drones enhance coverage of inaccessible sites and reduce operational costs by up to 35 percent, while emerging digital marketplaces and blockchain-style traceability systems are improving value chains for legal timber and non-timber forest products. Despite this progress, structural barriers—such as weak rural Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) infrastructure, high device and data costs, and low digital literacy—continue to limit widespread adoption. The paper recommends targeted investments in digital infrastructure, public–private partnerships, capacity-building programs, and policy support to scale up smart forestry nationwide. Integrating digital tools into routine operations offers a transformative pathway toward sustainable forest management, enhanced accountability, a stronger forest-based economy, and progress on Kenya’s climate, restoration, and biodiversity commitments.
Abstract: Smart forestry, the strategic use of digital tools, Earth Observation (EO) systems, drones, mobile GIS applications, and integrated data platforms and is becoming increasingly important for effective forest governance in Kenya. Forest ecosystems across the country face persistent pressures from illegal logging, charcoal production, encroachment, an...
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Case Report
The Role of Agroforestry in Climate-resilient Land and Soil Management: A Case Study of Nigeria’s Ogbomoso Agroforestry Project
Mohammed Abubakar Mohammed*,
Ofia Innocent Chinedu,
Abdul Rahim Mohammed Abubakar,
Soliu Muhammad Jamiu Badari
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
275-280
Received:
12 July 2025
Accepted:
8 August 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
Abstract: Agroforestry is increasingly recognized as a vital tool for sustainable land and soil management, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change. This abstract explores the Ogbomoso Agroforestry Project in Oyo State, Nigeria, where the integration of tree crops such as mango, cashew, and teak with traditional staple crops like maize and yam has been employed as a climate-resilient strategy. This initiative addresses key issues such as soil erosion, declining soil fertility, and unpredictable rainfall patterns, which are exacerbated by climate change. The practice of agroforestry in Ogbomoso helps stabilize the soil through tree root systems that reduce erosion caused by wind and water. Additionally, leguminous trees enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen, thus enhancing soil fertility naturally and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. The inclusion of trees in farming systems also improves water retention, a critical factor in semi-arid regions, ensuring that crops can thrive even during dry periods. By promoting biodiversity, sequestering carbon, and providing additional sources of income from tree crops, the Ogbomoso Agroforestry Project not only improves the land’s productivity but also contributes to environmental sustainability and economic diversification. However, despite these benefits, there are challenges, including limited access to technical knowledge, resources, and the long maturation period of tree crops. Addressing these challenges requires government support and policies promoting agroforestry, as well as local and international collaboration. By integrating trees with agriculture, the project provides a holistic solution that enhances soil health, increases agricultural productivity, and fosters ecosystem resilience in the face of climate change.
Abstract: Agroforestry is increasingly recognized as a vital tool for sustainable land and soil management, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change. This abstract explores the Ogbomoso Agroforestry Project in Oyo State, Nigeria, where the integration of tree crops such as mango, cashew, and teak with traditional staple crops like maize and yam h...
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Research Article
Agro-Pedological Characterization of Cashew Plantations (Anacardium occidentale L.) in Casamance, Senegal
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
281-289
Received:
19 August 2025
Accepted:
16 September 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
Abstract: In Senegal, the agricultural production system is dominated by rainfed crops, and the tree-crop association is an alternative for sustainable production. The introduction of high value-added woody species into the agricultural space should be one of the solutions for ensuring diversified and sustainable agricultural production. Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L., Anacardiaceae), which plays an important role in Senegal's agricultural sector, could be one of the species with high agroforestry potential, but has been little evaluated. The present study aims to contribute to understanding the importance of agroforestry species in agricultural production by characterizing the physicochemical fertility level of soils under cashew tree cover and establishing their cultural aptitudes. To this end, 18 samples were taken from 2/3 of the cashew tree crown radius at two depths, 0-20 and 20-40cm, in different production zones (Kolda, Sédhiou, Ziguinchor) in Casamance, characterized by the presence of poorly developed, ferralitic and hydromorphic soils. The results indicate a silty-clay-sandy texture of the soils in these regions. The texture of the 0-20cm horizon is also silty-clayey-sandy. However, the 20-40cm horizon has a sandy-clay texture. The soils are highly acidic (pH<5), with significant differences between regions and horizons. The highest values for pH, P/Ass, MO, CE, KCl, C, C/N were found in Kolda. A highly significant effect was detected between horizons. The 0-20cm horizon gave the highest values for MO (00.43±0.08%), CE (67.36±1.76), KCL (4.30±0.08), pH (4.69±0.09), P/Ass (2.77±0.45 ppm), C (13.33±0.76%), C/N (13.22±0.72). It appears that variations in pH (water, KCl) are strongly, positively linked to those in EC, C and OM, but negatively linked to clay. These results show that cashew soils are rich in mineral elements. However, it would be interesting to see whether soil properties are influenced by Anacardium occidentale L., and to learn more about the species' acidifying properties.
Abstract: In Senegal, the agricultural production system is dominated by rainfed crops, and the tree-crop association is an alternative for sustainable production. The introduction of high value-added woody species into the agricultural space should be one of the solutions for ensuring diversified and sustainable agricultural production. Cashew (Anacardium o...
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Research Article
Innovative Formulation and Quality Optimization of Herbal Pain Relief Oil Using Solar Thermal Technology
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
290-303
Received:
3 November 2025
Accepted:
17 November 2025
Published:
29 December 2025
Abstract: This study focused on preparing and optimizing herbal pain relief oil using solar thermal technology, specifically a solar box cooker, during winter and summer seasons. The performance of solar device was assessed through stagnation temperature and full-load tests using water and herbal pain relief oil, separately, measuring temperatures inside the cooker and pot, as well as ambient temperature, relative humidity, and solar radiation. Figures of merit (F1 and F2) were calculated to evaluate device efficiency. The herbal pain relief oil was formulated with mustard oil and varying proportions of nirgundi leaves (5%, 10%, 15%) and 5% of other raw herbs like ajwain, garlic, fenugreek and turmeric, processed for one or two days. The resulting oil was filtered, stored in sealed glass or plastic bottles, and subjected to laboratory analysis to determine pH, specific gravity, viscosity, acid value, saponification value, and refractive index. Sensory and organoleptic evaluations, including colour, odour, sensitivity, irritation, and overall acceptance, were conducted by 18 panellists, comparing the formulated oil to a commercial product. The optimal formulation, using 15% nirgundi leaves and 5% other herbs heated for two days in the box type cooker, yielded high quality yellowish green oil with a pH of 7.8, specific gravity of 0.92, viscosity of 29.09, acid value of 0.70, saponification value of 29.45, and refractive index of 1.38. This formulation, processed using the box type solar cooker, also demonstrated a profit margin of 50–60 ₹/L, highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of solar thermal technology for herbal oil production.
Abstract: This study focused on preparing and optimizing herbal pain relief oil using solar thermal technology, specifically a solar box cooker, during winter and summer seasons. The performance of solar device was assessed through stagnation temperature and full-load tests using water and herbal pain relief oil, separately, measuring temperatures inside the...
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Research Article
Acacia Melanoxylon and Alnus Accuminata Effect on Some Acidic Soil Content: A Case Study of Southern Rwanda
Nsabimana Leonard*,
Rukangantambara Hamudu,
Marguerite Mukangango,
Francois Xavier Naramabuye,
Khan Humayun
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
304-312
Received:
28 June 2025
Accepted:
19 July 2025
Published:
31 December 2025
Abstract: Background: Soil chemical content can be usually influenced by tree speciespositively or negatively. It is necessary to study the effect of Acacia Melanoxylon and AlnusAccuminata tree species on some acidic soil content. The research was conducted in Rwanda forestry Authority (RFA)/ Ruhande Arboretum to assess the effect ofAcacia melanoxylon and Alnusaccuminataon nitrogen, soil organic matter, and soil acidity content in acidic soil. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and three treatments were used. Soil sampling was done following the zigzag method per each treatment and each replication at two depths (0-15 and 15-30 cm). In each plot and each depth, ten soil samples were put together to make one composite sample. Results: The results indicated that the alter of soil chemical content can be influenced by tree species together with soil depths. The laboratory analyses indicated significant influence oftree specieson Soil pH, Organic Carbon, Organic Matter, Total Nitrogen, and Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio. The high values were observed under these two tree speciesand the low under fallow as a control for all parameters undertaken. The main factors should be the higher biomass and soil nutrients production under Alnusaccuminata comparatively to Acacia melanoxylon and fallow as control. Conclusion: The study indicated that tree species influence soil chemical content. Therefore, the establishment of Acacia melanoxylon and Alnusaccuminata tree species in farming systems like forestry and agroforestry under acidic soil is recommended andmuch should be done by Rwanda Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA) and Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) to use these miracles tree species especially Alnus accuminata in farming systems where are suitable across the whole Country.
Abstract: Background: Soil chemical content can be usually influenced by tree speciespositively or negatively. It is necessary to study the effect of Acacia Melanoxylon and AlnusAccuminata tree species on some acidic soil content. The research was conducted in Rwanda forestry Authority (RFA)/ Ruhande Arboretum to assess the effect ofAcacia melanoxylon and Al...
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Research Article
Media Projections for Farm Insecurity in Osun State, Nigeria
Adeniyi Suraju Amusat*,
Anjolaoluwa Oreoluwa Fadairo
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
313-320
Received:
5 November 2025
Accepted:
8 December 2025
Published:
31 December 2025
Abstract: The increasing spectrum of security challenges on crop production is of major concern to sustainable food availability for the nation at large. This study x-rayed security threats to crop production and examined the capacity of available communication sources for security information. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 149 crop farmers from six Local Government Areas - Oriade, Obokun, Odo-Otin, Boripe, Ejigbo and Iwo LGAs in Osun State. Data on farmers’ personal characteristics, security challenges, effect of insecurity on crop production, communication sources and capacity for farm security information were collected with the use of structured questionnaire. Data were described using frequencies, means and percentages, while Independent samples T-test and linear regression determined existing relationships and mean differences among variables. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Result showed a mean age of 47 years, majority could communicate in Yoruba (91.3%) and English (98.0%) and 91.9% had less than 5 acres of farm land. Most severe farm threat was pilfering ( = 1.63) and community clashes ( = 1.56). There was a significant difference (t=7.45; p<0.05) in the crop production before and after insecurity attacks in communities. Farm information use was mainly through farmers’ association (85.9%) and fellow farmers (81.9%); however, local task force, internet and radio ( 66.2, 44.8 and 40.4) respectively were assessed to have more strength for farm security information than others. Radio, extension visit, local task force and the internet contributed significantly to the change in crop production during security. Internet, local task forces, radio and farmers association have the strength for security information. The State Government should ensure that all police officers deployed to rural communities affiliate with the local task forces with the communities to ensure easy flow of security information among crop farmers.
Abstract: The increasing spectrum of security challenges on crop production is of major concern to sustainable food availability for the nation at large. This study x-rayed security threats to crop production and examined the capacity of available communication sources for security information. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 149 crop farme...
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