THE ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION OF VALLEY GRASSLANDS IN EAST AFRICA.

This article discusses a study which explored the origin and distribution of valley grasslands in east Africa. The study investigated several species of grasslands, their stature and status, and their phenological and ecological attributes. Results of the study demonstrated that grasslands are of ancient origin. The study obtained further evidence of the long history of formations of grasslands from an examination of the riverine grasslands of the Malagarasi (Tanzania) and Kafue (Zambia) drainage lines. The study suggested that optimum utilization and management of grasslands depend largely on background information.