Abstract:
angelands are areas in which the indigenous vegetation is predominantly grasses, grass-like
plants, shrubs and arranged as a natural ecosystem. Rangelands degradation means the reduction
in the rank and status of general plants and animals composition, energy flow and biomass of a
particular ecosystem. Rangeland degradation is a major challenge in Kenya. Pastoralists utilizing
degraded rangelands suffer from poverty and food insecurity. The aim of this study, therefore,
was to investigate the effects of rangeland degradation in Mbeere South Sub-County, Embu
County. The objective of the study was to identify the main indicators of land degradation in the
area, assess the causes and impacts of land degradation on rangelands and also assess the
potential methods for rangeland restoration. The study adopted the survey research design. A
stratified random sampling technique was used to select respondents from the target population.
Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. A target population of 30 households
was interviewed and data analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS. The study provides
crucial information on causes of rangelands degradation and contributes to the existing body of
knowledge. The findings can be used by the local community and policymakers to address the
challenge of rangeland degradation
