MST-Department of Environmental Studies and Community Development

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Establishment of Boundaries for Sustainable Conservation and Enhanced Livelihoods of Forest Dependent Communities Neighbouring Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve in Kilifi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-04) Lonzi, Zipporah
Forest management in Kenya was initiated in the year 1902, marking the inception of organized efforts to sustainably oversee and regulate the country's forest resources. Before, forests were taken care of by specified area leaders, specifically local chiefs with the typical system of governance, but the introduction of state system of forest administration lowered community-based forest management systems in all forests of in Kenya. Consequently, forest dependent communities were forced away from the forest and lost the resources they used to collect from the forests for their livelihood. Thus, in the 1980s, there were confrontations between the government and communities surrounding forests which led to the need for Participatory Forest Management. The research therefore sought to examine how forest resource users' boundaries can be developed for enhanced sustainable community livelihoods and forest conservation. The specific objectives of the study were, to examine the extent to which participatory forest management boundaries are developed in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve; to examine the effectiveness of the government policies in governing forest resources and resource user's boundaries in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve and; to assess how the income of the forest dependent communities has been increased as a result of forest resources use and resource users' boundaries in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve. The study used a case study approach where qualitative data was collected to address the study objectives. The study employed purposive sampling to select 220 respondents from various groups involved in the co-management of the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest Reserve, using Yamane's formula to initially target 396 households from a population of 39,112, but ultimately included a mix of PFM and non-PFM households, government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders to ensure comprehensive representation. To collect data, semi-structured sets of questions were used to both participatory and non-participatory forest management households and all the data collected was analyzed qualitatively by putting similar themes together and using them to answer the study objectives. Based on the first objective, the study found that the development of participatory forest management boundaries in Arabuko-Sokoke has been largely successful, with most communities acknowledging the importance of such boundaries for sustainable resource use and forest conservation, facilitated by government agencies. Based on the second objective, the study found that government policies on forest resource and boundary regulation have been effective, significantly reducing resource destruction, although challenges such as community leader intimidation and insufficient protection for forest scouts highlight areas for policy and enforcement improvement. Concerning the third objective, the study revealed that the implementation of forest management boundaries and resource use regulations have positively impacted community livelihoods, enabling income-generating activities like beekeeping and tourism, which have contributed to educational advancements and a significant reduction in poverty levels. The study therefore recommends that the establishment of the forest resource use boundaries is necessary for sustainable community livelihood and forest conservation.
Examination of the Socio-Economic Factors Influencing Sustainable Food Production in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands of Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya2022
(AJGR, 2022-01-05) KimiteiIsaac Kipchirchir ,Ming’ate Felix Lamech Mogambi
Food insecurity has remained a major challenge to many developing countries. The Food and Agricultural Organization, estimates that 842 million people have suffered from lack of food access, resulting in undernourishment. Kenya’s rural and urban areas, have been suffering from food insecurity since independence. Previous case-studies have shown that, although various governments and donor agencies' have attempted to sponsor food-production programs, execution has remained a challenge. Elgeyo Marakwet has previously been experiencing famine intervention projects from World Vision Kenya, Community Agricultural Development for Semi-Arid Lands, National Agriculture and Livestock Extension Program and Njaa Marufuku Kenya. The aim of this research was to examine the, organizational structure, socio-economic and capacity-building factors that contribute to sustainable food production in semi-arid and arid areas. The study used a descriptive survey research design to guide in the collection of data from a sample of 136 households using structured questionnaire. Data was analysed through cross-tabulation using Chi square, ANOVA and percentages. In conclusion the research has revealed that organizational, demographic and capacity building factors are important in the improvement of food production. It is recommended that sustainable food security depends on developing sustainable local food production policy.
Adoption of Sustainable Bamboo Farming to Mitigate the Effects of Soil Degradation and to Improve Livelihood in Kinale, Kiambu County, Kenya
(kenyatta university, 2023) Maina, Joy Wamahiga; Samuel O. Ochola; Joyce Mwaniki
Bamboo is a perennial flowering plant with a distinctive life cycle: many bamboo species remain in the vegetative phase for decades, followed by mass synchronous flowering and subsequent death. Bamboos are grasses (Poaceae) that are widespread in tropical and subtropical regions with the potential to increase forests cover owing to their morphological fast growth. This study aimed at i.) identifying the level of use in sustainable bamboo farming curbing effects of soil degradation, ii.) evaluating the level of community awareness on bamboo farming and its environmental benefits, and iii.) assessing the importance of Bamboo as non-wood plant to sustain and improve community livelihoods. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 192 respondents within Kinale region, Kiambu County during a survey to gather information on bamboo farming and its impacts in curbing soil degradation. The data was analyzed on IBM® Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 21. Results showed that 56.2% of the respondents in Kinale region Kiambu County were involved in bamboo farming whereby the odds were about twice (1.821, 95% CI, Lower limit =1.11; Upper limit=2.997) as great as the odds of their counterparts. Among respondents involved in bamboo farming, the highest variance of 35.8%, 29.4% and 21.33% were from respondents that considered bamboo as a sustainable alternative to trees, aware of deforestation and degradation and bamboo farming for income generation, respectively. A respondent considering bamboo as a suitable alternative to trees was twice more likely to be involved in bamboo farming [Exp (B)= 1.963, 95% CI: 0.179, 7.307; p=0.032] whereas that who considered bamboo for income generation, was thrice [Exp (B)= 3.058, 95% CI: 0.433, 2.005; p=0.025]. Bamboo farming awareness was through Agricultural Extension Officers, Community Based Organizations and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) as reported by 46.9%, 40.1% and 13%, respectively. Majority of 83.4% practice bamboo farming for monetary benefits compared to 16.6% that is for environmental benefits. Notably, 43.2% of the respondents reported environmental improvement associated with bamboo farming. Among the bamboo farming products, posts, chairs and baskets were reported by the majority of 30.9%, 27.2% and 20.2% of the respondents, respectively. A K-mean analysis revealed two clusters based on variables environmental-related and economic sustainability livelihood-related. In the first cluster, both variables: a sustainable alternative to trees and Land improvement or reclamation had a significant impact on its aggregation. However, in the second cluster, variables: bamboo as a source of income, household size and literacy level had a significant impact on its aggregation whereas variable: main source of income has none. The majority of 77.8% of the respondents involved in bamboo farming were in Ksh. > 2,000 - < 8,000 earning categories. Therefore, the study had shown the potential of bamboo farming in mitigating soil degradation, sustain and improve community livelihoods.
Mega-Projects, Land Tenure and Local Institutions Changes in Nakuprat-Gotu Community Conservancy in Isiolo County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Changwony, Winnie; Eric M.Kioko; Peter Wangai
Community-Based Conservation (CBC) in Northern Kenya occur in diverse socio-ecological and socio-political contexts, which often influence their success and changes. Recently, the region was proposed for implementation of the Lamu Port South-Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor; a large-scale infrastructural development associated with resort cities, highways, pipelines, railway lines, among others. If fully implemented, these mega projects will massively encroach on land formerly under the Nakuprat-Gotu conservancy in Isiolo. This study utilized the perspectives of ‘economies of anticipation’ to explore emerging land tenure changes as the LAPSSET corridor and other ancillary projects take shape. It further examined the dynamics facing local institutions used to conserve and govern natural resources in the context of emerging issues, and its implication to the CBC system. The conservancy under study is an important ecosystem for wildlife and pastoralism and is owned by previously warring Turkana and Borana pastoralist communities, brought together under a common conservancy unit to harmoniously share resources. The study adopted a descriptive research design and a mixed method approach. Primary data was collected from a sample size of 110 members of the conservancy, the management committee, conservation actors as well as government agencies. Respondents were engaged through semi-structured interviews, key information interviews (KIIs) and focused group discussions (FGDs). Additionally, secondary sources including journals, relevant reports, and library materials were used. Quantitative data was organized and analyzed using the statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) and further complimented the qualitative results which were analyzed and presented using thematic coding analysis. The findings of the study revealed that Nakuprat-Gotu’s CBC model has been a sustainable land-use model and a critical tool in supporting organized access, use and benefit sharing of communally owned resources among the Turkana and Borana. With the anticipation of mega-projects, communities are increasingly expressing hope and expectations, fears, and contestations about the uncertain future of their land, the conservancy, and pastoral livelihoods. These manifest through the changes in land views explained through the notion of ‘commodification of commons’ where communal land within the conservancy becomes a commodity for exchange in arm’s length market. Consequently, the area has witnessed massive land tenure changes that have also been characterized by pseudoformal land registration arrangements, foreign land acquisitions and privatization, as well as land grabs albeit with manifold layers of contestations and conflicts. Local institutions, referring to informal rules, regulations, norms, and values for conservation of nature, that have hitherto played an instrumental role in governing the commons, are facing new strains given the emerging land tenure issues and coupled political instrumentalization. The rule of the elders, who are the custodians of communal property, are increasingly losing their grasp on local land matters and suffer from the weight of recent institutional innovations and replacement. With the increasing value of land owing to the proposed mega projects, traditional institutions and councils of elders face political pressure to provide “social licenses” to land-related transactions. Findings also showed that indigenous norms and customary expressions, which conservation was pegged on, is under threat following the expectations of modernity promised in the ongoing plans and discussions that present the corridor as a ‘game changer’ in the north. These emerging issues raise critical concerns on the future of a community-based conservation model in the region.
Risks and Perceptions on Human Excreta Disposal Practices among Rice Farmers in Mwea Kirinyaga County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Wachira, Ruth Wambui; Simon Mburu
Accessibility to sanitation facilities is an important human right for everyone as well as the basic sign of attaining sustainable development. In Mwea rice irrigation scheme there is presence of Schistosoma mansoni, which is linked to poor human excreta disposal. Since parasite eggs are contained in fecal matter in the intestines, improper excreta disposal causes new infections in the environment. Regulating the infection's propagation depend on social economic status and community knowledge. The objective of this research aimed to investigate risks and perceptions on human excreta disposal practices among rice farmers in Mwea. The specific objectives were: to assess human waste disposal practices among rice farmers in Mwea, to identify the health and environmental risks associated with rice cultivation practices among people employed in rice paddies, and to determine the extent to which the group is conscious of the health hazards associated with excreta disposal activities in rice cultivation paddies. A structured questionnaire was used to assess the human excreta disposal habits, attitudes, and community knowledge of transmission risks. The observation approach was used to determine latrine coverage. This was a cross-sectional analysis that was used convergent mixed - method designs to collect quantitative and qualitative data for future studies. The data were fed into a computer and analyzed with the SSPS program, which enables fast analysis and quantitative data computation. The study provided information on the current state of understanding about the prevention and control of diseases linked to poor human excreta disposal, as well as the measures that would be implemented to address the problem. From the findings it was concluded that farmers from Mwea paddies do not have toilet hence these forces them to dispose their waste within the paddies. The fact that they do not wash their hand regularly after visiting the toilet increases chances of contracting diseases. Most of health workers regularly visit the community for health trainings however there are other many areas that they have not accessed. It was also recommended that they also make sure that strict toilet building and usage guidelines are observed and that every resident uses the rest rooms, whether at home or in pit latrines. The neighborhood's few existing toilets need to be made cleaner in order to decrease the incidence of disease infections. All county residents and farmers need to be made aware of the risks associated with consuming and utilizing untreated water from open water sources. Wells must be well-guarded against contamination, and water taken from open sources like rivers and canals must be thoroughly purified or boiled before use.
Factors Affecting Adoption of Organic Food Production System Amongst Smallholder Farmers in Murang’a County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023) Muriithi, Sarah Nyawira; Joseph K. Muriithi
Organic farming is among the identified sustainable farming systems as it puts into account social, economic and environmental concerns. However, while many countries across the world including Australia, United States, Tanzania and Uganda have shown great interest in organic farming, Kenya still lags behind with approximately 1% of the total farm land using organic farming. The general objective of this study was to investigate factors affecting adoption of organic farming amongst smallholder farmers in Murang’a south region, Murang’a County, Kenya. The specific objectives were (i) to assess the effect of household characteristics on the adoption of organic farming, (ii) to examine institutional support factors which influence the adoption of organic farming and to examine farmers’ perceptions towards organic farming in the study area. The target population were 361 organic and conventional farmers obtained from the list of farmers targeted and working with pro-organic farming organisations namely KOAN, ICIPE and OACK from Gatanga, Kandara and Kigumo sub-counties. Proportionate sampling yielded a total of 189 farmers, both organic and conventional, who participated in the survey as respondents. The research employed household surveys and key informant interviews methods. The research used structured questionnaires and interview schedules to collect information from the farmers and key informants respectively. Key informants included representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Department of Agriculture, local NGOs, organic goods stockists, and organic products marketing companies. Questionnaire responses were successfully collected from 152 participants yielding an overall response rate of 80.4%. Data was coded and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Quantitative data was analysed descriptively and was presented using percentages and frequency distribution tables. For objective one and two, a logistic regression model was fitted to determine the probabilities and the odds of a farmer adopting not adopting organic farming. Qualitative data was organized into coherent categories in line with research objectives. Farm size (P=0.0, -1.602), experience of the farmer (P=0.017, 0.009), the variety of crops grown ( P=0.009, 0.069), were found have a positive effect on farmers’ decision to adopt organic farming or not. Organic farming techniques trained, number of organisations training and of training duration (P=0.000, 3.553) have a positive effect on whether to adopt organic farming. The study found higher adoption in techniques where more training was offered. Variety of trainings, variety of training organisations and training duration (P-value is 0.000) were found to influence the extent (partial or whole farm) to which an organic farmer adopts organic farming. Training was also found to be the most effective way of disseminating organic farming information. While majority of the respondents portrayed a positive perception on sustainable benefits of organic farming, they also had a perception that organic farming is labour intensive, does not improve overall crop yields and market value and it’s difficult to manage pest. The study recommends that pro-organic organizations should give more focus to farmers with smaller farm sizes and greater farming experience to enhance adoption of organic farming (OF). The pro-organic farming organizations should intensify training on OF, providing accurate information on OF transition period, certification, and markets. The perceptions can be positively influenced if pro-organic NGOs and the government can make improvements in availing adequate information. This can be done by intensifying training and advisory services on organic farm management and markets in order to improve the organic farming adoption.
Flood Risk Management For Socio-Economic Development In Loko Community, Adamawa State, Nigeria
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Hadiza, Ndagana Iyami; Samuel O. Ochola; F.L.M. Ming’ate
The goal of flood risk management is to reduce the socio-economic impact and loss of human resources that is caused by floods. Previous researches paid attention to the socio-demographic effects of disasters in general and not on the general flood risk assessment, such as; factors responsible among many others. This study investigates flood risk management for the socio-economic development of Loko Community in Song local government area in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Three main objectives proposed by the study are; to assess the socio-demographic characteristics of Loko Community, examine the level of compliance to flood risk management policies, and evaluate the effectiveness of flood risk management in influencing socio-economic development in Adamawa state. The study investigated the following hypotheses. (i) There are no distinctive socio-demographic characteristics that distinguish people in flood-prone areas from others not affected. (ii) There is no compliance to flood risk management policies in Loko community, Adamawa state, Nigeria. (iii) Flood risk management is not effective in promoting socio-economic development in Loko Community of Song Local Area Government. The study adopted a case study research design and targeted a population of (N=4,200) inhabitants, 800 households, 20 NEMA staff and 40 ADSEMA staff. Paper questionnaire was the main survey tool adopted for collection of data. The study also obtained information through Focus Group Discussions and key informant interviews. For data analysis, the study employed descriptive (descriptive statistics; frequencies and percentages) and inferential (ANOVA) analysis using SPSS version 22. The study found that flood significantly affects the socio-economic condition and livelihoods of the people. The study also found that there is some level of compliance to disaster management and control policy in the community. The study revealed that the main flood challenges in the study community include; inadequate funding for flood risk management, poor community participation, high illiteracy levels and stereotypes within the community. The study recommends that houses should be built using durable materials and away from flood paths. It is essential that houses outside of flood plains will lessen the consequences of flooding. Also, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives should encourage communities to cultivate more on upland by providing financing through the Extension Services to improve food security for households. The number of assistance programs for the impacted should be increased, and the support programs should give priority to viable farmers. The study finds that better and more effective strategies must be created to prepare for and lessen the effects of floods. This is attainable through an inclusive programme that involves all the players of the community. To encourage community engagement in flood risk planning, as well as the creation and application of risk assessment strategies. Furthermore, it is important to address socio-economic issues like poverty, livelihood profile, cultural perspectives, the status of marginalized social groups, and the rights of racial and ethnic minorities immediately.
Ecosystem restoration methods and livelihoods development in Machakos County, Kenya
(Kenyatta university, 2022-09) Kyalo, Benjamin Munuve; Joseph K. Muriithi; Felix Ming’ate
Among the highly degraded environments in the world are the arid and the semi-arid areas hence mostly vulnerable to Global warming, climate change, soil erosion and other environmental challenges. Understanding ecosystem restoration Methods and the local adaptive capacities is critical for livelihood development. This study’s main objective was to examine ecosystem restoration methods and livelihoods development in Kithimani sub-location, Machakos County, Kenya. The research determined the effect of ecosystem structure and functioning on livelihood development and ecosystem resilience, examined ecosystem restoration methods used, challenges to ecosystem restoration and the moderating influence of ecosystem restoration Methods on livelihood development and ecosystem resilience in Kithimani Sub location, Machakos County. The study hypotheses were that ecosystem structure and function do not have significant effect on livelihood development and ecosystem resilience, there are no significant ecosystem restoration Methods used, there are no significant challenges to ecosystem restoration and finally, there is no significant moderating influence of ecosystem restoration methods on livelihood development and ecosystem resilience in Kithimani Sub location, Machakos County. This study adopted descriptive research design because it helped in describing the ecosystem structure, observing the ecosystem restoration Methods and outlining the livelihood development methods in the study area. Primary data collection tools included questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The sample size included 384 households which were purposively and randomly selected. Data from questionnaires was first cleaned through editing, coding and tabulation for the detection of any anomalies in the responses. Specific numerical values were assigned for the analysis. Data from the key informants was reviewed to ensure that the interview schedule was well done and analysis done using the Framework Based Approach. Both qualitative and quantitative data were then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Mann Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis H tests were also conducted to test if medians between comparison groups were different. Results showed that 56.3% and 61.1% of the household heads and key informants were male while 37.7% and 38.9% of the household heads and key informants were aged 40-49 years. There was a significant positive effect of structure and function, challenges to ecosystem restoration and ecosystem restoration Methods used and a significant moderating influence of ecosystem restoration Methods on livelihood development and ecosystem resilience in Kithimani Sub location, Machakos County, Kenya. All the null hypotheses were rejected and the alternative hypotheses accepted. The study concludes that ecosystem structure and functioning, challenges to ecosystem restoration and restoration Methods used are significant variables affecting livelihood development and ecosystem resilience and recommends that specific ecosystem-based restoration measures like planting of drought tolerant crops and trees need to be adopted in Kithimani to decrease the vulnerability of the communities
Water Sanitation and Hygiene Program and Its Impact on Public Health in Schools in Kisumu County, Kenya
(2022) Omwami, Duncan Ondieki; Joseph Kurauka; Samuel O. Ochola
In most developing countries, there is a great challenge to provide sanitation services to the rising number of students enrolling in schools in relation to the scarce resources available. Research shows that sanitation is worse in schools than in the general population, even though schools are guided under the health policy of 2009. About 90% of sanitation issues stem from poor hygiene in schools, affecting public schools and public health. The water, Access Sanitation, and Hygiene program rolled out in Kisumu East, and after six years, the program had been inadequately addressing the sanitation challenges. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the WASH program and the teachers' contribution to enhancing the quality of latrines and examine the environmental factors that affected the quality of latrines. The study targeted 20 schools with 384 students and 40 teacher respondents. These included schools that participated in the WASH program and those that did not. The head teachers and Principals from each school were sampled purposively, while other teachers in the school were sampled randomly. Questionnaires were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data on teachers and environmental determinants affecting latrine quality. In contrast, a checklist was used to collect data on the quality of the latrines. The latrine quality was studied by looking at five significant parameters: latrine adequacy, latrine structure, latrine privacy, availability of functional hand washing facilities, and the cleanliness levels of the latrines. The research employed a descriptive research design. The data was processed and analyzed according to the variables and objectives of the study using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 21.0 software. Data summary and classification was done using descriptive statistics (mean and variance). Data was then presented using tables. According to the results presented, all the teachers and students from WASH and Non-WASH schools indicated the conditions of the latrines. From the study, 37.5 % of the teachers indicated that the latrines were clean, while 62.5% of the teachers indicated that the latrines were dirty. On the other end, 37.7 % of the students indicated that the latrines were clean, while 62.3% of the students indicated that the latrines were dirty. This was information from schools that had implemented the WASH program and those that had not implemented the WASH program. The results indicated a significant relationship between the implementation of the WASH program and cases of diarrheal diseases among the students, with a significance value of 0.001*. This study, therefore, determined the contribution of the WASH program in relation to its impact on community health and how effective the program was in addressing the health issues in Kisumu East Sub- County.
Adaptive Capacity of Pastoralists to Climate Variability in Ngaremara, Isiolo County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2022) Nkonge, Lisper Gakii; Felix Ming’ate; Joseph Kurauka
Pastoralism is practiced for subsistence, commercial and cultural purposes. It’s a sustainable way of utilizing ASALs and contributes to 4% of Kenya’s GDP. Climate variability, population explosion, and poverty have lowered the adaptive capacity to climate variability of Ngaremara pastoralists in Isiolo County. Therefore, this study was carried out to examine the adaptive capacity of pastoralists to climate variability in Ngaremara, Isiolo county. The study’s main objective was to evaluate the ability to adapt socially, physically, and economically to climate variability among the Ngaremara pastoralists in Isiolo County. The specific objectives were establishing the existing indigenous adaptive strategies, presenting the climatic trends for the past ten years in Isiolo County, to establish climate variations occurring over shorter timeframes as opposed to climate change that persists for more than decades, and determining adaptive capacity's internal and external hindrances. The study also aimed to deduce the strategies that enhance the willingness of the Ngaremara pastoralists to adapt to new climate variability adaptive strategies. The study used a cross-sectional research design. Systematic, simple, and purposive sampling methods were used to sample the population. Direct observation method, household interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions were used to collect primary and secondary data using interview schedule and questionnaires. Qualitative data from household interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions were analyzed according to the study’s objectives and collected using the KMacho App. The KMacho APP was used because it allows researchers to collect geographical location-specific information to monitor incidences, integrates data in the cloud database, and saves on time and cost. Quantitative data collected from household interviews and secondary sources were collected using the KMacho App and analyzed further using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences SPSS v.22 and Microsoft Excel. Data was imported from KMacho App and automatically grouped into titles, labels, and names using SPSS summarized into categories and tabulated to calculate the frequency of specific themes. Data presentation is in the form of tables, figures, and graphs. The expected output was that low socioeconomic development among Ngaremara pastoralists in Isiolo County increased vulnerability to climate variability. The study proves that there is reduced adaptive capacity and their traditional methods to cope with climate variability are futile. Their living standards are deficient because their livelihood sources solely rely on pastoralism, which has been affected by climate variability. Moreover, fluctuating rainfall of between 250mm and 400mm and an annual average temperature of 290C have exposed pastoralists to drought, floods, famine, and pastoral conflicts. Still, they are willing to adopt new coping strategies for climate variability. The impact of the study will enable informed decision-making by external agencies such as policy makers, NGOs, Isiolo County Government, and the community to improve the adaptive capacity to climate variability by developing coping strategies, creating information avenues such as Early Warning Signs, and enhance development by introducing various projects to diversify livelihoods. Future research should look into dimensions of food insecurity in Ngaremara and the effects of climate variability on human health.
Examining the Socio-Economic Factors Influencing Sustainable Food Production in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands of Elgeyo Marakwet County in Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Kimitei, Kipchirchir Isaac; Felix M. Ming’ate
Food insecurities remain a major challenge to many developing countries. The Food and Agricultural Organization estimates that 811 million people experienced hunger in 2020. In Kenya, the arid- and semi-arid (ASAL) Humanitarian Network estimates indicate that one in 10 people in ASAL areas faced high levels of food insecurity. Although some ASAL counties such as Elgeyo Marakwet have benefited from several famine interventions projects to reduce food insecurities, poverty, hunger, and food insecurities remain high. Consequently, this study examined the socio-economic, management practices, and capacity-building factors that affect production of food in ASAL areas, learning from implementing the Community Agricultural Development for Semi-Arid Lands project. The study employed a cross-sectional survey to collect data from various farmer groups that benefited from the program. A sample of 136 determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s table was randomly selected from the list of farmer beneficiaries. Data was analysed using the Statistics Software Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 21. Data presentation was conducted by use of cross-tabulated tables, percentages and frequency distribution tables. From this study, Marital status (𝑝=0.006), Family type (𝑝=0.038), Family size (𝑝=0.018), land ownership (𝑝=0.021)And land size (𝑝=0.006) had a significant association with overall sustainable food production. The study found a statistically significant relationship between management practices (𝐹(1,134)=321.94,𝑝<0.0005), capacity building (𝐹(1,134)=1239.91,𝑝<0.0005) and overall sustainable food production.Consequently, programs aiming to improve food production in these areas and other similar settings should prioritize capacity building among farmers and deploy sustainable food production approaches while considering the socio-economic factors such as family type, family size and marital status that significantly influence food production. Besides, other factors such as land ownership must be urgently addressed if increased food production in the areas has to be realized.
Assessment of the Opportunities and Challenges of Infrastructure Development and Service Delivery in Kianda Kibera Slums, Nairobi
(Kenyatta University, 2008) Elijah, Lillian Mwikali
Despite the increasing slum population, the problem of infrastructure and service delivery remains largely unresolved in Kianda village, Kibera shims. This has led to increased human and environmental health risks. This research therefore sought to assess the opportunities and challenges of infrastructure development, basic service delivery and aesthetic enhancement in Kianda, focussing on several variables namely: housing, education, energy, playgrounds and roads, water, sanitation and waste management and health care facilities. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected using questionnaires, Interview schedules, Focused Group Discussions, field checklists and content analysis of secondary data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Pearson correlation coefficient was used in determining the emerging relationships between selected key variables. Results obtained showed that while households desired improved infrastructural development and service provision, they had poor housing structures, inadequate health care, education and water facilities, poor communication networks, low quality energy sources and inappropriate waste management systems. As a result, there were low levels of education attainment and high rates of school dropouts, water, air and soil pollution and consequently the impact of water borne diseases. Barriers to improved service delivery included poverty and lack of negotiating skills, poor slum policies and absentee landlords, corruption and unresponsive governing authorities. Households were noted to engage in survival mechanisms hazardous to human health such as disposing wastewater directly outside their houses (83%) and use of flying toilets (8%). Household practises hazardous to the environment included among others use of firewood and charcoal for cooking (81%), disposing wastewater in channels draining into Mutoine River (83%), and use of flying toilets (8%). Educated households engaged less in hazardous practises than in uneducated households. Likewise, higher income households engaged more in less hazardous practises than lower income households particularly the use of own latrines and ablution blocks, Both local and international organizations were providing several services in Kianda in the absence of the City Council, though none was involved in road network provision. There were few health care facilities in Kianda mostly private clinics. This, compounded with risk factors like unsafe water, poor sanitation and hygiene had contributed to the burden of water borne diseases. Reported cases of ill health included Malaria (39%), Typhoid (26%) and diarrhoea (35%). There fore, for service provision to improve in Kianda, awareness on the dangers of the households' survival mechanisms must be created. This had greatly been caused by the high poverty levels in the slum, which urgently calls for more focused urban poverty reduction policies. There is also the undisputed need to actualise tenure rights in the slum so as to give the households an incentive to negotiate for services from concerned urban authorities. A participatory slum-upgrading programme should also be emphasized, given the inclination of the global world towards participatory development.
Effects of Integrated Tree Based Food-Energy System on the Livelihoods of Small-Holder Farmers’ Perceptions in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2020) Sebastian, Paul Kinyua
Tree Based Integrated Food-energy System is a farming system that combines food crops and trees for wood energy production on the same farm. This farming system aims at producing both food and wood energy on the same piece of land through sustainable crop integration and agro-systems. Therefore, this study was aimed at examining how this system can promote the livelihoods of small-holder farmers in Kenya, with particular focus on Chuka Igambang’ombe Sub-county in Tharaka Nithi County. This study sought: to evaluate ways in which integrated tree farming can be a source of income to smallholder farmers in Kenya; to assess the extent to which integrated tree farming can be a source of food to small-holder farmers in Kenya; to assess how integrated tree farming can be a source wood energy to small-holder farmers in Kenya; and to explore ways in which integrated tree farming can lead to environmental conservation in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive study design and used random sampling method to sample 385 respondents from all five locations of Chuka Igambang’ombe Sub-county in Tharaka Nithi County. The study collected both qualitative and quantitative data using the questionnaire as the main research tool. The first, second and third objectives were analyzed using quantitative methods while qualitative methods were used to analyze the fourth objective. The collected data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The collected data was analyzed, interpreted and presented in form of tables, charts and correlations. From the study, it was observed that the majority of the farmers plant calliandra tree species at an average of 850 trees per farm. The abundance of this tree species, which mainly act as fodder, shows the extent to which farmers embrace daily farming in this region. The findings also showed that Grevillea robusta and Eucalyptus species, were most common timber production species and Coffea arabica as the main cash crop in Igambang’ombe Constituency. From the findings it was found that Tree Based Integrated Food-energy Systems (TBIFES) as a source of income can lead to a statistically significant (p=0.016<0.05) effect on the small-holder farmer’s livelihood. The majority of the respondents opined that that TBIFES can be a reliable source of food for small-holder farmers. The farmers also felt that TBIFES can help in promoting food security. However, the 86% of the farmers felt that the government was not performing its role in promoting the uptake of TBIFES through provision of incentives and advocacy programs. Furthermore, majority of respondents also felt that the government was limiting the potential of TBIFES as a source of sustainable energy for small-holder farmers due to its lack of commitment to the TBIFES through offering of incentives, support services and advocacy that would improve the uptake of this system of farming. According to the farmers, the tree based integrated food and energy systems farming can help in the efforts towards the conservation of the environment. However, majority (83.6%) of the respondents indicated that the government should improve its efforts to offer support and incentives to the small-holder farmers to increase their adoption of tree based integrated food and energy systems in Igambang’ombe Constituency. Further, the government can also improve the outcome of the TBIFES through advocacy programs. The study recommends that there should be proper law enforcement to sensitize and enhance environmental conservation measures. Moreover, farmers should be educated and sensitized on the need for growing more fruit trees to promote food security.
Effects of Climate Variability on Dodder Invasion, Distribution and Management in Belgut Area of Kericho County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2020) Chepkirui, Winny
Parasitic weeds are plants that have evolutionarily lost autotrophic way of life during their development stages. Dodder, a plant of the Cuscuta species, is one such invasive parasitic weed with a wide range of world geographic distribution and host diversity. In Kenya, dodder is common in counties at the Coast, Central, Nyanza, Western and Rift valley. The plant is alleged to parasitize on a variety of perennial crops, wild and domesticated trees and shrubs thus affecting host vigor quality and quantities of crop yields, in particular the socio-economic reliance on crops infested by the weeds is in jeopardy as measures to curb the spread and control it are being sought urgently. Moreover, there are relatively less local research reports on socio-economic, biological and physical factors enhancing its spread, host association and effective control methods. This survey therefore sought to find out implications of climate variability on dodder invasion, association, distribution and management in Belgut area of Kericho County, Kenya. Specifically, the study examined climate variability in the study area between 1988 and 2017 in relation to dodder occurrence and distribution. Historical climate data, consisting of rainfall and temperature, was obtained from the Kericho Meteorological Department for the period 1988 to 2017. The study also identified socio-economically valued plant hosts, impacts and cultural management methods of the dodder control. The Survey of Kenya Topographic Sheet No. 117/3 was used to sample 399 households as the sample size for the study. This was done by first sampling the land segments. The study area covered an area of 200km² and was divided into 1 km² land segments. Yamane’s formula was used to determine the sample size and 133 of these land segments were obtained as the sample size. Within each 1 km² land segment, three farm households were purposively selected for acquisition of data based on field accessibility. A questionnaire consisting of items on such variables as socioeconomic profiles, historical dodder invasion, hosts and its management, was administered to the heads of the selected households. An observation sheet was used to record GPS locations of dodder occurrence, broad ecological characteristics, host species associations and related characteristics. The data were classified and statistically analyzed (p≤0.05). Linear regression model revealed that rainfall has been decreasing while temperature has been increasing. The Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index of dodder hosts was 1.89, this implies diversity was on average since the index normally lies between 1.5 and 3.5 for most communities. Simpson Diversity Index was 0.2, This index lies between 0 and 1 and approaches 1 in cases of monoculture. The number of parasitized species were 43 in total, tea was the most parasitized host with 2391 individuals parasitized. Analyzed data map indicate that Waldai and Sigowet wards had the highest relative occurrence and densities of dodder. Six local methods were used for management of dodder and their applications differed significantly by gender of the household head (χ2 = 24.72, df = 10, N = 124, p = 0.006) and non-significantly with education level of the household head (χ2 = 39.79, df = 40, N = 124, p = 0.48). Killing of host was reported to be the most effective dodder management method. There is rapid spread of dodder primarily because of the wide host range (Shannon Weiner Index 1.89) and no economical and effective management method. Further research in a multi-disciplinary approach needs to be undertaken urgently to understand the local environment in relation to proliferation as well as determination of the most effective management methods. Prevention of dodder spread is the best way to manage dodder, where infestation has occurred treatment should be done immediately.
Developing Ecofriendly Approach for Management of Pests and Diseases of French Beans in Murang’a and Kirinyaga Counties, Central Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2020) Matere, Nancy Jilande
French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) production areas are in close proximity to Nairobi and around Mount Kenya. These include Kirinyaga, Machakos, Nyeri, Naivasha and Thika. Production of the crop is majorly hampered by pests. To manage these, farmers are known to mainly depend on synthetic pesticides as a sole control measure which at times results to produce exceeding maximum residue limit set by the importing markets. Pesticides leave residues in and on the produce, contaminate soil and waterways, harm non-target organisms and cause general environmental pollution. Economically, the farmers who use pesticides in the production of french beans for export are in danger of losing their market share due to the failure to manage the MRLs. To help safeguard the livelihood of the small scale farmers, this study was carried out to provide the best environmentally responsive approach in managing the French beans pests. The study was carried out at Mwea in Kirinyaga county and Thika in Kiambu county. The treatments included use of selected synthetic pesticides, biological control, and integrated pest management (IPM) comprising of Agronets, biocontrol and monitored pesticide use based on randomized complete block design with four replications. Results show no significant difference across the various management practices in the number of most pests such as Aphids (P=0.125), Thrips (P=0.424) and Bean fly (P=0.725). A significant difference was noted in infestation by whitefly (P=0.002) and Leaf hoppers (P=0.015) among the different treatments, Agronet treated plots recorded the lowest infestation levels (means 14.9a and 1.00a) followed by Biocontrol plots (mean 66.8b) while the control plots recorded highest levels of (mean 91.4b and 10.4b). The yield of the beans from the Agronet plots gave a higher mean yield quantity of (7215g) as compared to the other treatment options Pesticides (5992g) and Biocontrol (5716g). The Agronets plots as well showed lower mean numbers of the bobby beans (989g) as compared to the fine (4708g) and extra fine (1518g) beans.IPM provided effective management of the various pests as it included both the use of biocontrol products and pesticides under Agronet technology. Farmers interviewed on aspects of challenges in adoption of IPM as a pest management strategy showed that majority (58.1%) had not heard about Integated Pest management with those who have heard (41.9%) requesting the need for more information. Of the respondents who had information about IPM only a small group (25%) practiced it while the rest (75%) have not practiced the same. A significant positive correlation (0.545**) was recorded between those farmers who have heard of IPM and those who practice the strategy. Therefore, optimization of the IPM system would be essential for ensuring maximum control of pests’ hence increased French bean production.The study recommends involvement of Government through the various stakeholders to train farmers on IPM, encourage farmers to use simple and less expensive cultural methods in pest management including application of ash to the plant roots, physical removal of infested plant parts among others.
Effectiveness of Rainwater Harvesting as a Strategy For Flood Mitigation in Ruai Area, Nairobi County, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2020) Nkirote, Doris
Harvesting of rainwater is a strategy which primarily benefits the local human livelihoods and ecosystems. Ruai has gone through development boom and densitification, increased infrastructure such as roads, both single and multi dwellings leading to changes in the physical characteristic of the area hence increased surface run-off. Further Ruai and its environs are flat hence encouraging flooding .There has been a range of incidences of flooding in the area causing loss of property, disruption of socio amenities such as schools, hospitals and roads. Structural measures such as drainage ditches, infiltration trenches have been advanced and used to reduce flooding effects during rainy seasons.. However, these measures have not been effective due to large population growth and increased infrastructure in Nairobi. This study investigated rainwater harvesting effectiveness in Ruai as an effective method of flood mitigation and control. The objectives achieved were to evaluate the socio-economic effects of floods in Ruai area, to examine strategies used by the households and community and their success in avoiding loss and damage from floods in Ruai area, to assess household‘s RWH adoption and farmingrelated uses in Ruai, to find out the socio-economic determinants of RWH adoption and to assess RWH‘s impact on flood mitigation in Ruai. Using a descriptive research design the study sampled 99 house hold heads and 6 key informants through purposive sampling. The study employed questionnaires for households and interview schedules for key informants. The household questionnaire survey generated both descriptive and numeric information. Closed questionnaires generated quantitative data, whose presentation and analysis entailed tabulation in terms of and other techniques such as frequencies, percentages and the mean. Interviews and open-ended questionnaires helped gather qualitative data that was analysed through coding and classifying (categorising and indexing). The results indicated that floods led to destruction of property, disruption of social amenities, water borne diseases, with 56 of 94 respondents migrating to higher areas at Ruai during floods. Structural drainage systems such as dykes and culverts were used in controlling floods with only a third of the respondents using rainwater harvesting as a strategy to control floods. Socio-economic factors such as gender, age, household size, education level, income level and land ownership determined the adoption of water harvesting in a bid to control floods. More than 60% of the respondents indicated that rainwater harvesting reduced lag time for storm formation while 86% showed a reduction in overland flow. The study recommends the need for all the stakeholders in Ruai and Nairobi County to seek Rainwater harvesting strategies in ending the perennial flood problem. Rainwater harvesting is a strategy that if well instituted and implemented can help reduce and mitigate floods in Ruai and be an alternative during water scarcity period. Community awareness should be done to encourage households to think of and embrace rainwater harvesting as a strategy for flood prevention and mitigation and not only to capture water for domestic use.
Influence of Stakeholder Participation on Domestic Waste Management in Biashara Residential Area, Kiambu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2019-11) Ndururi, Janet Waithera
important to involve all stakeholders in the process. This study was conducted to investigate the influence of stakeholder participation on domestic waste management in Biashara residential area, Ruiru sub-county Kiambu County, Kenya. The study had the following objectives: To establish the influence of stakeholder participation strategies on domestic waste management, To determine the influence of stakeholder forums and communication practices on domestic waste management, and To examine the influence of stakeholder engagement frequency on domestic waste management. The study utilized cross-sectional descriptive research design and a sample of 383 respondents was utilized, data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides and analysis was done using SPSS version 23. The study established that majority of the residents (59%) are empowered to recycle and separate their waste and that there is a strong positive correlation between stakeholder’s empowerment to recycle their waste and improved DWM (r=0.539, n=342, p=0.01). On waste storage, the results indicated that there is a significant positive correlation between stakeholder consultations on appropriate waste storage techniques and improved DWM (r=0.328, n=342, p=0.01). In terms of waste collection, the study deduced that stakeholder negotiations are sometimes held to designate waste collection days and that there is a very strong and significant positive correlation between adherence to negotiated waste collection days and improved domestic waste management (r=0.838, n=342, p=0.01). On waste transport and disposal, the study established that, 38.6% and 42.7% of the respondents respectively agree that partner and tenant meetings are held. Additionally, the study deduced that there is a significant strong positive correlation between adequacy of partner meetings and improved DWM (r=0.491, n=342, p= 0.01) and a significant moderate positive correlation between the adequacy of tenant meetings and the improvement of DWM (r=0.317, n=342, p=0.01). Finally, the study determined that there is no significant correlation between stakeholder engagements carried out multiple times a year and improved DWM and that the correlation that exists is negative (r= -0.077, n=342, p=0.157) while there is a mild and significant positive relationship between stakeholder engagements carried out annually and improved DWM (r=0.197, n=342, p=0.01). The study concluded that overall, there is a significant positive correlation between stakeholder participation in DWM and improved DWM and recommended a significant increase in stakeholder participation in DWM and further studies into ways of enhancing stakeholder participation in DWM.
Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Variability Impacts on Coastal Settlement Areas in Mombasa County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2019-05) Sheriff, Salia S.
Sea level rise and ocean flooding as a result of climate variability are often manifested on shore lines. Such impacts may be experienced in creeks and river estuaries when they overflow their banks thus causing significant impact on human settlements. Flooding is not extraordinary to Kenya especially in Mombasa County. The Port City of Mombasa, the largest seaport in East Africa, over recent years experienced incessant flooding. Unplanned settlements and structures along creeks and riverine estuaries have relatively higher densities of population. As increased population pressure continues to pose challenges to the community, it is further complicated by climate variability impacts. Tourism and the economic activities here influence inflow of population from different parts of Kenya and the world at large. Yet application of indigenous knowledge to mitigate and adapt to the resulting impacts are underreported in literature. This study examines the role of community indigenous knowledge in mitigation and adaption of climate variability impacts on settlements adjacent to three major creeks in Mombasa County: Port Reitz, Tudor and Magogoni. More specifically, the study was primarily set to determine climate variability by an analysis of temperature and rainfall between 1986 and 2016 with data sourced from the Kenya Meteorological Department. It further sought to find out application of local indigenous knowledge to mitigate climate variability impacts on settlements and livelihood activities. It also determines incidences and patterns of sea level rise as a result of climate variability and as assessed role of environmental education in shaping communities’ capacity in measures used and preparedness to cope with the flooding and associated disasters. The survey used head of a household as the unit of data acquisition. Household sample size was determined statistically and derived from the population residents around the three creeks. Structured and semi-structured questionnaires were administered to the sampled household heads to obtain information regarding variables set in the objectives. The data was statistically analyzed (p≤0.05) in regard to the main variables with the help of computer software such as Excel and SPSS. Results were presented in tables, charts and graphs with detailed discussions. The impacts were interpreted in relation to livelihood activities in the study areas comparative to similar places around the world. It can be concluded that based on the set questions and conclusions with respect to role of indigenous knowledge in mitigation and adaption of climate variability impacts on coastal settlement areas of Mombasa County, it was found that the study areas experience high precipitations and irregular temperature trends though rainfall variation was statistically significant. Sea level rise as result of flooding affects residents in the study areas from $ 100 to 200 annually. The respondents have low environmental education and rarely aware of climate change; hence, low community preparedness, low involvement in local preventive measures and the lack of improved drainages. Many local activities such as tourism, animal grazing, farming and business are factors that largely affect community resilience and preparedness to flooding in the study areas.
Socio-Economic Attributes Hindering Adoption of Alternative Crops to Tobacco Farming in Kehancha Division, Kuria West Sub-County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2017-07) Maroa, Mariba John
Studies have documented many negative social, economic and environmental implications of tobacco farming. Tobacco farming puts an extra stress on ecosystems and causes specific health and socio-economic problems for poor populations engaged in the activity. Through research, environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative crops to tobacco farming such as soya beans, watermelons, sweet potatoes, groundnuts, cabbages, among others, have been identified. However, the rate and level of adoption of such crops is low in many regions, Kuria region being one of them. This study focused on examining the socio-economic attributes hindering adoption of alternative crops to tobacco farming in Kehancha Division, Kuria West Sub-County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were; to examine the influence of farmer attributes in the adoption of alternative crops, to explore the influence of farm characteristics in the adoption of alternative crops to tobacco farming, and to examine the contribution of extension, credit and market access in the adoption of alternative crops to tobacco farming in Kehancha Division. Descriptive survey design was used in the study since it was appropriate in capturing issues in their natural setting. The target population was tobacco and non-tobacco farmers in the division. Proportional stratified sampling and simple random sampling were used to select sub-locations and villages. Simple random sampling was also used to select adopters and non-adopters to get the required sample size, which was 108. Purposive sampling was used to get key informants. Primary quantitative and qualitative data were collected through household surveys using structured questionnaires and interviews using interview schedules with both closed and open-ended questions while secondary data were collected from relevant documented sources. Quantitative data were analyzed through simple descriptive statistics such as frequency distributions, totals and percentages. Relationships amongst variables were analyzed through correlation by regression analysis. Qualitative data were cleaned, organized, coded and analyzed through emerging themes. Based on objective one, the study found that age, education level and household size influenced adoption of alternative crops to tobacco farming with correlation coefficient of 0.444, 0.226 and -0.406 respectively. On objective two, it was found that input challenge influenced adoption of alternative crops negatively with a correlation coefficient of -0.554. Household land size and the level of production had no significant influence in the adoption of alternative crops to tobacco farming. In regard to objective three, the source of agricultural information, agricultural information challenge, credit and market access had significant influence in the adoption of alternative crops to tobacco farming with correlation coefficients of -0.281, -0.177, 0.176 and 0.162 respectively. The study, therefore, recommends that the national and county governments in collaboration with other key stakeholders including the local NGOs make efforts to encourage farmers to adopt alternative crops through awareness creation, provide inputs, adequate extension services, affordable credit facilities and enhance market structures for alternative crops especially for those farmers willing to adopt alternative crops to tobacco farming in the area. In addition, the farmers should be encouraged to form commodityspecific cooperative societies so as to aid their participation in marketing their produce.
Integration of Indigenous and Conventional Drought Prediction and Preparedness Techniques as a Drought Risk Reduction Strategy in Mbeere North Sub-County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2018) Njagi, Emily Wanja
The study examines the prospects of integration of Indigenous Knowledge (IK) and conventional drought prediction and preparedness practices, with an overall aim of applying the two approaches as a Drought Risk Reduction (DRR) strategy in Mbeere North Sub-County of Embu County, Kenya. The objectives of the study included: To examine the perceptions of the Ambeere community on drought and its impact on the livelihoods; To document the main indigenous drought prediction and preparedness practices among the Ambeere and assess their significance to the community; To compare and contrast the indigenous knowledge of the community and the conventional approaches to drought prediction and preparedness; and, To suggest an integrated approach to drought prediction and preparedness for Mbeere North Sub-County. The research was based on a descriptive survey which targeted different categories of respondents including sages identified through purposive sampling techniques among elderly men and women in Mbeere North. The study samples were selected in Muminji and Evurori Wards, areas selected due to their central location and incidents of drought. Questionnaires were administered to purposively and randomly sampled members of local government ministries, Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs), Community Based Organizations (CBOs) and Faith Based Organizations (FBOs) to collect data on the various practices attached to indigenous and conventional drought prediction and preparedness. Key informant interviews and FGDs were held with purposively sampled representatives of various organizations and snowballed community elders to gather qualitative data on values, attitudes, traditions and beliefs attached to drought prediction and how they compare with the conventional weather forecasts. Data obtained through questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS version 17. Qualitative methods of data presentation including descriptive discussions and narratives were used to present pertinent information on values, attitudes and beliefs attached to drought prediction and preparedness. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distributions namely percentages and measures of central tendency were presented either in text, frequency tables, diagrams, figures or photographs thematically guided by the objectives of the study. The results showed that there was a statistical significant relationship p=0.00 between community’s drought perception and livelihood of Mbeere Sub-County community members. The study also found out that the total monthly loss of agricultural-related income as a result of drought was Ksh 7,816 per household. The study revealed that a wide array of both indigenous and conventional drought prediction and preparedness techniques prevailed in the community. There was an interface between the indigenous indicators and those used by formal meteorologists with several aspects of prediction such as animal/plant behavior and astronomical aspects overlapping in the two approaches. Though both conventional and indigenous drought forecasts contributed significantly in guiding the mitigation of drought effects, the community members were strongly inclined towards the local indigenous environmental indicators that they have interacted with and relied on to predict droughts for a long time. Documentation of Ambeere Indigenous Knowledge (IK) on drought prediction and preparedness was found to be scanty, owing to the gradual disregard of the same by the formal sector. Incorporation of the Ambeere indigenous drought prediction practices into the formal forecasts have been recommended in this study with a view to establishing a ‘hybrid’ weather prediction model in the Mbeere North Sub-County

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