Geomorphological Characteristics and their Effect on Rural Land use Patterns in Arashkol Region, Edduiem Locality, White Nile State, Sudan (2000–2025)

Abstract

The study aimed to analyze the general geomorphological features of the Jabal Arashkol region in White Nile State, evaluating their impact on the spatial patterns of rural land use, including agricultural, pastoral, and residential activities. The study addressed critical environmental challenges facing the region, notably soil erosion, rainfall variability, and vegetation degradation, which negatively affect population stability and local livelihoods. Utilizing an integrated approach combining descriptive, regional, quantitative, and analytical methods, the study leveraged Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to process Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data to generate slope, aspect, and hill shade maps. The study revealed that topographical variations, slope gradients, and weathering/erosion processes act as the primary determinants of land-use distribution: agriculture is concentrated in low-slope plains, steep areas are utilized for grazing, and human settlements are situated in geomorphological safe zones. The study recommended integrating geomorphological mapping into land-use planning frameworks to foster sustainable development in semi-arid environments.

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