Analysis of Vegetation Cover Dynamics Using the NDVI in Kabkabiya Locality, North Darfur State, Sudan, During the Period 2000–2025

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the dynamics of vegetation cover in Kabkabiya Locality, North Darfur State, during the period 2000–2025, in light of the climatic changes and increasing human pressures that have affected the sustainability of natural resources in the region. The research addresses the lack of detailed studies examining the spatial and temporal patterns of vegetation cover change and the extent to which these changes are influenced by environmental factors. Accordingly, the study seeks to achieve several objectives, including analyzing vegetation cover changes using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), monitoring temporal and spatial trends of vegetation degradation or improvement, assessing the impacts of climatic and anthropogenic factors, and supporting sustainable environmental planning. The study adopts a quantitative analytical approach based on Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques. Multi-temporal satellite imagery acquired from Landsat 5, Landsat 7, and Landsat 8 was analyzed, and NDVI was calculated to detect and evaluate vegetation cover changes over the study period. ArcGIS software was employed for data processing, map production, and spatial pattern analysis. The results revealed the predominance of sparse vegetation classes and a decline in healthy vegetation cover, indicating an overall trend toward environmental degradation. The study recommends the implementation of sustainable natural resource management strategies, regulation of grazing activities, enhancement of reforestation programs, and the continued use of remote sensing technologies for environmental monitoring. Such measures can support informed decision-making processes and contribute to achieving sustainable development in the study area.