Patterns of Land Use among the Maragoli of Sabatia Constituency, 1900-2010
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Date
2021
Authors
Muhandale, Alex Amisi
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Sabatia constituency is the most densely populated of the five constituencies in Vihiga
County with an ever increasing pressure on land. This has led to uneconomical subdivision
of land leading to poverty, poor land use, food insecurity and frequent land disputes.The
study aimed at establishing the patterns of land use among the Maragoli of Sabatia
constituency. Three research objectives guided the study. These were to: Describe the key
features of the pre-colonial patterns of land use among the Maragoli on the eve of
colonialism upto 1900; examine the changes in Maragoli land use during the colonial
period, 1900-1963; and finally, analyze the post independence government policies that
have affected the Maragoli land use patterns, 1963-2010. The study was guided by
articulation of modes of production theoretical framework. A review of relevant literature
was conducted to determine the existing knowledge gaps on the patterns of land use. In
order to realize the intended research objectives; the study adopted a historical research
design. The sample comprised of Maragoli farmers, youths and adults, agricultural officers
and officials from the Vihiga lands department. Data was collected by use of question
guides, interviews and Focused Group Discussions and later analyzed by use of qualitative
and quantitative techniques then presented using tables where necessary. The study was
carried out within Sabatia constituency which covers an area of 105.4 square Kilometres
with six county wards namely; Liaduywa/ Izava, Sabatia West, Chavakali, North Maragoli,
Wodanga and Busali. Through the research findings, it was established that during the precolonial era, the Maragoli developed an elaborate land use system characterized by
individual and communal land ownership with an administration under the guidance of
elders. Finally, the research also found out that through introduction of colonial individual
title deeds, cash crops, new forms of employment, introduction of cash economy and new
farming methods, the Maragoli land use patterns were greatly changed and most
significantly reduced the Maragoli food production. This in turn led to food shortage,
poverty, unemployment and increased crimes.
Description
A Thesis Submitted to the School of Humanities and Social Sciences in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of Master of Arts (History) Degree of Kenyatta University. May, 2021
Keywords
Patterns, Land Use, Maragoli, Sabata Constituency, 1900-2010