THE INFLUENCE OF CHANGING LAND USE PATTERNS ON SOCIAL WELL BEING: A CASE STUDY OF THE MAASAI COMMUNITY IN KITENGELA MUNICIPALITY, KENYA

Abstract

The transformation of traditional pastoral lands through urbanization presents a critical challenge for the Maasai community in Kitengela Municipality, with profound implications for their social well-being. While previous studies have documented broad changes in land use patterns, there remains a significant gap in understanding how these changes specifically affect the social wellbeing of the Maasai community. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of changing land use on the social well-being of the Maasai community in Kitengela Municipality, Kajiado County. The study was informed by the Ecological Modernization Theory, which suggests that continued economic growth and technological advancements can coexist with environmental conservation and sustainability. The study employed a descriptive research design with a target population of 234,000 Maasai community members and 15 Administrative Leaders in Kitengela Municipality. Using stratified random sampling, a sample size of 384 participants was selected. Data was collected using structured questionnaires with closed-ended questions on a five-point Likert scale, following necessary approvals and informed consent procedures. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics and regression analysis using SPSS. The study found a strong positive correlation between changing land use and social well-being (r = 0.718, p = 0.000), with 94% of participants reporting significant changes in traditional land use patterns. The regression analysis revealed that changing land use significantly predicted social well-being (β = 0.214, p = 0.000), explaining 51.6% of the variance. The study concluded that changing land use patterns significantly influence the social well-being of the Maasai community, with effectively managed changes leading to substantial enhancement in overall community well-being. The study recommended that urban planners and policymakers prioritize balanced land use management through participatory planning processes that integrate traditional pastoral practices with modern urban needs while establishing regular assessment mechanisms to monitor land use impacts on community well-being.