Explain the seven classification of agro ecological zones in Kenya?

1. Highland Zones: These zones are characterized by high altitudes and cool temperatures, making them suitable for the cultivation of crops such as tea, coffee, and vegetables. Examples of highland zones in Kenya include the Central Highlands and the Rift Valley Highlands.

2. Mid-altitude Zones: These zones have moderate temperatures and are suitable for the cultivation of crops such as maize, beans, and wheat. Examples of mid-altitude zones in Kenya include the Western Highlands and the Eastern Highlands.

3. Lowland Zones: These zones have warm temperatures and are suitable for the cultivation of crops such as rice, sugarcane, and cotton. Examples of lowland zones in Kenya include the Coastal Lowlands and the Lake Victoria Basin.

4. Arid and Semi-arid Zones: These zones have hot temperatures and low rainfall, making them suitable for the cultivation of drought-resistant crops such as sorghum, millet, and livestock farming. Examples of arid and semi-arid zones in Kenya include the Turkana Basin and the Kajiado Plateau.

5. Coastal Zones: These zones have a warm and humid climate, making them suitable for the cultivation of crops such as coconut, cashew nuts, and spices. Examples of coastal zones in Kenya include the Coastal Lowlands and the Lamu Archipelago.

6. Urban and Peri-urban Zones: These zones are characterized by high population density and are suitable for the cultivation of high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Examples of urban and peri-urban zones in Kenya include Nairobi and Mombasa.

7. Forest Zones: These zones are characterized by dense vegetation and are suitable for the cultivation of timber, bamboo, and non-timber forest products. Examples of forest zones in Kenya include the Aberdare Forest and the Mau Forest.

Seven Agro-Ecological Zones (AEZs) in Kenya

Kenya's agro-ecological zones are classified based on factors such as rainfall, temperature, altitude, and soil characteristics. These zones determine the suitability of different crops and livestock for farming.

1. Humid:

- Rainfall: 1,500-2,500 mm annually
- Temperature: 18-25°C
- Altitude: <1,800 m
- Vegetation: Montane forests, tea plantations
- Suitable crops: Tea, coffee, sugarcane, bananas, potatoes
- Livestock: Dairy cattle, poultry

2. Sub-Humid:

- Rainfall: 1,000-1,500 mm annually
- Temperature: 18-25°C
- Altitude: 1,000-2,000 m
- Vegetation: Grasslands, shrubs, woodlands
- Suitable crops: Maize, beans, sorghum, millet, wheat
- Livestock: Beef cattle, sheep, goats

3. Semi-Arid (Lowland):

- Rainfall: 500-1,000 mm annually
- Temperature: 20-30°C
- Altitude: 200-1,000 m
- Vegetation: Shrubs, grasslands, acacia forests
- Suitable crops: Sorghum, millet, maize (with irrigation)
- Livestock: Goats, sheep, camels

4. Semi-Arid (Highland):

- Rainfall: 750-1,000 mm annually
- Temperature: 15-20°C
- Altitude: 1,000-2,000 m
- Vegetation: Shrubs, grasslands, woodlands
- Suitable crops: Maize, beans, wheat, barley
- Livestock: Beef cattle, sheep, goats

5. Arid:

- Rainfall: 250-750 mm annually
- Temperature: 25-35°C
- Altitude: <200 m
- Vegetation: Desert shrubs, grassland
- Suitable crops: Sorghum, millet (drought-tolerant varieties)
- Livestock: Goats, camels

6. Semi-Arid Special:

- Rainfall: 500-750 mm annually
- Temperature: 15-25°C
- Altitude: 2,000-3,000 m
- Vegetation: Alpine meadows, shrubs
- Suitable crops: Potatoes, barley, wheat
- Livestock: Sheep, goats

7. Highland:

- Rainfall: 1,000-2,000 mm annually
- Temperature: <15°C
- Altitude: >3,000 m
- Vegetation: Alpine meadows, moorlands, glaciers
- Suitable crops: Potatoes, barley, wheat (in sheltered areas)
- Livestock: Minimal grazing for yaks, sheep