Cropland encroachment is a major driver of conflict between farmers and herders in Sudan. This technical note used satellite imagery and on-the-ground surveys to monitor a livestock route in Sennar State.

The results are promising. After the route was re-demarcated, the total area of cropland within it decreased by over 7,500 hectares. Less cropland means less obstruction of the route and a likely reduction in conflicts between farmers and herders. This study highlights the potential of remote sensing as a tool for monitoring and managing stock routes to mitigate conflict.

This note is based on a collaborative study with the European Space Agency's Global Development Assistance Programme.