Climate Variability and Adaptive Capacity in Semi-arid Tharaka District, Kenya.

Abstract

This study assessed the state of adaptive capacity in four agro-ecological zones of Tharaka sub-county, Kenya. The study utilized two data sets: household survey and key informants. At total of 326 household respondents across four agro-ecological zones; and 24 key informants from public and private sectors were sampled. A chi-square test was used to test the independence of attributes of adaptive capacity-flexibility and access to resources. It was established that the state of adaptive capacity is reflected in households’ cropping and livelihood diversification; and cultivation of drought tolerant crops. Institutions are also involved in support programs such as distribution of relief food and planting seeds, infrastructural support of irrigation and rainwater harvesting. There is need for climate science, practitioners and community interaction to scaled-up communication of best optimal adaptation practices that are risk averse to climate variability.