Limitations to the use of remote sensing technology in Kenya

The use of remote sensing technology is becoming an increasingly necessary tool for planning development projects, even in developing countries such as Kenya. There is a need to use quick, accurate and convenient methods to gather information over the ever-changing environment. Remote sensing in this region can be used for surveying, vegetation monitoring in the rangelands, weather assessment and forecasting, water resources management, forest fire detection, early warning activities (drought, food, floods), migration patterns of wildlife, detection of pollution planning of infrastructure, agriculture, demographic changes, and all aspects of land use planning. Despite the great demand for remote sensing in Kenya, its use has been hampered by problems ranging from financial constraints, gaps in technology, lack of enough trained personnel, socio-political and economic constraints. These constraints need to be resolved if advances in space technology applications for peaceful activities are to benefit the people. This paper deals with identifying these constraints, their causes, and possible resolution.