Geospatial Technology for Identification of the “Far Behind” in Attaining SDGs 13, 14 and 15

SDGs are founded on the objective of promotion of even development at both local and international levels after the realization that a significant population is very poor who are termed “left behind”. Thus, there is need to identify “those left behind” and “those far behind” for prioritization in attaining SDGs No. 13 (Climate action), No. 14 (Life below water) and No. 15 (Life on land) in Kenya. This paper proposes the use of geospatial technology to identify those left behind, and their distribution within a geographical setting. Landscape analysis of Tindiret in Nandi County was conducted to identify areas of high risk to land degradation and establish the number of households within this area. Further, biomass production trend in Kenyan ASALs was analysed from 2001–2015. The landscape analysis showed that 84.5% of the residents live on 76.0% of the land with a slope of 12–55%, where soil and water conservation measures are a requirement. Those in steep slopes of more than 55% constitute 7.7% of the households living on 16.0% of the area where no farming is allowed. The ASALs biomass production analysis showed that 35.20% of the area where 31.22% of the population live experienced a declining trend. The analysis identified those far behind, including where they are located. The research recommends that for successful application of geospatial technology in identifying those left behind, capture and inclusion of; socioeconomic data, environmental quality, types of pollutants, agricultural activities, climate impacts and actions, in spatial context, is necessary.