Strategies to control sand dune encroachment in Hobyo District, Somalia

Abstract

Abstract

The district of Hobyo, central Somalia, is under intense sand-dune intrusion driven by strong monsoon winds, a lack of vegetation cover, and human activities, threatening settlements, infrastructure, and grazing pastures. The management of such dynamic dune systems requires an integrated approach that combines mechanical, ecological, and socio-economic interventions. Mechanical controls, e.g. sand fencing, checkerboard barriers, and temporary windbreaks, provide quick protection against sand movement and infrastructure damage. Ecological strategies, such as revegetation with drought- and salt-tolerant plants, micro catchments, soil amendments, and shelterbelts, have a positive effect on long-term stabilisation, soil health, and biodiversity. Rotational grazing, seasonal grazing prohibitions, livelihood diversification, and Community-based governance are socio-economic responses to human causes of land degradation and enhance locally based land stewardship. The interventions are guaranteed to be effective under constantly changing climatic and socio-economic conditions through adaptive management aided by remote sensing and GIS mapping, field surveys, and community-based monitoring. Such integration enhances the ecological resilience, protects livelihoods, and ensures sustainable dune stabilisation in Hobyo.