K.A.N. Koua, B. Koffi, K.B. Kpangui, K.V. Salako, A. Hounkpevi, I. Bamba, A.A.Y. Assale, M.G.S. Zanvo, R. Kakai Glele, K.L. Kouassi, M. Habel and Y.S.S. Barima
Abstract
Over the last few decades, escalating natural and human-induced pressures have had a profound impact on land use dynamics, posing formidable challenges for decision-makers and researchers striving to manage and sustain terrestrial resources. Consequently, land use and land cover (LULC) modeling has emerged as an indispensable decision-making tool. The primary aim of this study is to significantly contribute to the new knowledge of landscape dynamics in Africaâs cacao-growing regions for advanced territorial planning, natural resource management, and biodiversity conservation. The findings reveal substantial changes in vegetation cover in western Côte dâIvoire between 1985 and 2018. As a result, we have forecasted land use dynamics for 2030 and 2050 in a mountainous region facing mounting human pressures by utilizing the Land Change Modeler (LCM) model. The validation of the model has yielded visually and statistically satisfactory results, with Kappa indices surpassing 80%, demonstrating a high level of agreement between actual and simulated maps. The conclusions drawn from this study hold undeniable relevance for decision makers, urban planners, and citizens, particularly considering the growing demand for cocoa in global markets.