Explain the conditions that have influenced the distribution of mangrove forests in East Africa 

Candidates are expected to identify areas in East Africa, with Mangrove forests/vegetation i.e. Areas along the coast of East Africa between 5⁰Nand 5⁰S of equator, around Mombasa, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanga, Lamu . the lower valleys of Rufigi and Ruvuma etc.

 The conditions include:

• Heavy rainfall of over l 000mm, high humidity levels of over 80% and hot temperatures of 24°C- 30°C leads to the growth of luxuriant mangrove forest.
• They grow in impervious clay soils, peat soils. Mud flat alluvial soils, deep saline/coral soil facilitate, luxuriant growth of mangrove forests.
• Altitude. Found at low altitude of below 200m which is associated with high temperatures and heavy rain fall
• Relief Found in coastal lowlands and broad valleys/creeks which favours accumulation of silt, mud, alluvial soils that support mangrove
• Drainage. Mangrove forests grow in poorly drained/soggy/water-logged and saline water conditions.
• Presence of barrier reefs/coral reefs along the coast that prevent the alluvial soils from being swept away by wave action.
• Presence of low Tidal range of water that creates marshy conditions which favour the growth of mangrove forests.
• Government policy. Governments have gazetted mangrove forests leading to their continuous existence (conservation).

However on the other hand, man is encroaching on the mangrove forests for extracting building materials/poles cultivation of water loving crops etc. hence reducing the area covered by these forests.