Food Poverty among Pastoral Communities in Dryland Kenya
Abstract
160 words
The dryland area of Kenya has the highest poverty incidence
compared to other areas in the country; this is why poverty
reduction has been a key government policy goal especially in
these areas. These regions are predominantly inhabited by
pastoralists and agro-pastoralist communities. The combination
of food poverty and lack of alternative livelihood made them
vulnerable to extreme climatic condition and change. This study
was carried out in larger Baringo District to examine food poverty
and the coping mechanisms employed by agro-pastoralists and
semi-nomadic pastoralist in dryland Kenya. Results reveal that
there is a high poverty incidence and severity among the two
communities. At the peak of the food shortage, agro-pastoralists
sell their assets and reduce the number of meals (90.8% and
82.3%) respectively. Compared to their counterparts during the
same period, they mostly buy food on credit (71%) and ask for
help from friends and relatives (60.9%). This study recommends
more investment in livestock economics and supporting livelihood
diversification.
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