Effects of Climate Variability on Livelihood Choices and Gender Roles Among Pastoral and Agro-pastoral Communities in Marsabit County, Kenya

Abstract

Climate variability significantly affects agricultural production worldwide, with changes in precipitation and temperature leading to extreme weather events and negative effects on agricultural production. Findings from trend analysis showed that rainfall trends have significantly increased in Marsabit County. Below-average rainfall was experienced in Maikona in 2000 and 2011 with a magnitude of -42.9 mm and -39.3 mm, respectively, while below-average rainfall was experienced in Kargi in 2000, 2009, 2011, and 2012 with a magnitude of -41.7 mm, -24.2 mm, -35.3 mm, and -34.3 mm, respectively. Analysis of the temperature trends and variability showed that both night and day temperatures have significantly increased over the years in Marsabit County. Regardless of the geographical location, climate variability significantly influences the success or loss of agricultural production, which is the main source of income in developing countries. The findings indicate a decreasing trend in the March-May rainy season and mean total seasonal rainfall of 0.3613 mm (Kargi), 0.4617 mm (Maikona), 1.7261 mm (Dakabaricha), and 1.6686 mm (Sololo) every year. This implies a decrease in total rainfall and fewer opportunities for sustained rainfall-dependent livelihood activities in the county. The study reveals an increased workload of 48% and 32% for women and men respectively. In addition, the study found out that men are the main decision-makers (63%), provide for the family (38%), provide security (29%), and arbitrate issues in the community (17%) while women are the household domestic managers (33%). Within the pastoral community, women are more vulnerable, are among the poorest of the poor, and are highly susceptible to climate variability effects. Climate variability causes pulsed livestock and crop production, and in severe cases, total agricultural production failure. Thus, it has been a major determinant of household livelihood choices in pastoral and agro-pastoral communities that rely on rain-fed crops. This study aimed to contribute to understanding gender roles as influenced by climate variability over the years, and the adaptation to climate variability among the pastoral and agro-pastoral communities in Marsabit County. This aimed to inform policy development and development initiatives for improved pastoral livelihoods and food security...