IMC Puntland Launches Jibagalle Land Cover Assessment and Mapping Report

The Puntland Information Management Center for Water and Land Resources (IMC Puntland) proudly announces the publication of the Jibagalle Land Cover Assessment and Mapping Report 2026, a landmark study aimed at strengthening environmental monitoring, sustainable land management, and evidence-based planning in Puntland.

The report presents a comprehensive assessment of land cover, land use, and environmental degradation within the Jibagalle area using advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing technologies, and the internationally recognized FAO Land Cover Classification System Version 3 (LCCS3).

This study marks a significant milestone as one of the first applications of the LCCS3 methodology in Somalia, establishing a modern scientific framework for future land cover mapping initiatives across the country.

The assessment covered approximately 219.38 km² and identified 17 distinct land cover classes, including sparse shrubs, herbaceous savanna, bare soil, agricultural lands, water catchments, and settlement areas. The findings provide critical insights into land degradation, vegetation dynamics, agricultural practices, and environmental changes affecting local communities and livelihoods.

Using Very High-Resolution satellite imagery, field verification surveys, and community-based data collection, the report delivers accurate and reliable spatial information to support policymakers, researchers, humanitarian organizations, and development partners.

Among the key findings:

• Sparse shrubs represent the dominant land cover type within the study area.
• Land degradation features such as gully erosion and reduced vegetation cover are affecting significant portions of the landscape.
• Agricultural production remains an important livelihood activity despite increasing environmental pressures and climate-related challenges.

The report also outlines practical recommendations for sustainable land management, including erosion control measures, invasive species management, farmer training, afforestation, and continuous environmental monitoring.

IMC Puntland extends its appreciation to FAO-SWALIM, technical experts, partner institutions, field teams, and the Jibagalle community for their valuable contributions to the success of this assessment.

This publication reflects IMC Puntland’s continued commitment to advancing climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and data driven decision making across Puntland and Somalia.

📘 Download the full publication here: