Dryland Agriculture in Kenya: Gendered risks, Vulnerabilities and Research Gaps
Abstract
156 words
The drylands of Kenya that comprise of Arid and Semi-Arid
Lands (ASALs) make up about 80% of the total land area and
support approximately 30% of the population, mainly pastoralists
and agro-pastoralists. They are home to most of wildlife and
other resources including minerals, precious stones, building
materials, sources of energy and medicinal herbs. Although they
contribute about 5% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), this is
mainly through livestock production, implying that their potential
is far from full exploitation. Hence, many resources lie
unexploited in the midst of great want. The agricultural activities
in these areas are mainly pastoralism and dryland farming that
are challenged by weather variability and poorly developed
‘bazaar’ among other factors. Indeed, the livelihood options
come with great risks that largely take socio-economic
dimensions. In particular, gendered risks present much
vulnerability to both men and women with varied consequences
on both. This paper examines these risks and vulnerabilities
from a gender perspective.
Subjects
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