Spatial-Temporal Impacts of Port Development on City Land Use:

Mombasa City

Abstract

This study examines the spatial-temporal impacts of port development on land use in Mombasa, Kenya, with a focus on the Port Reitz area. Using Landsat 9 imagery (2010–2022), Land-Use and Land-Cover (LULC) analysis, and Pearson correlation tests, the research assessed how port expansion influenced vegetation cover, open spaces, and built-up areas. Results reveal strong negative correlations between port development and vegetation (r = –0.9595) and open spaces (r = –0.9981), indicating significant ecological decline and urban land-use transformation. Qualitative findings from key informants confirmed that uncoordinated port growth has displaced livelihoods and degraded natural environments. The study concludes that port development, while economically beneficial, compromises urban sustainability when detached from spatial planning. It recommends integrated port–city master planning, public participation, and green corridor initiatives to balance development with ecological preservation in line with SDG 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities.