Security of subsistence among small scale migrant farmers: the case of Thome settlement scheme in Laikipia district,Kenya

Abstract

This study focused on the subsistence strategies for small-scale farmers living in a semi arid region. The objective of the study was to examine the current social and economic activities of the settlers as they relate to their social networks. In particular, the study attempted to evaluate motives for migration, and assess the economic structure and social networks among the immigrants. A sample of 99 respondents was drawn using the stratified random sampling technique. The sampling frame was the list of current residents of Thome settlement scheme who are small scale farmers and who migrated from neighbouring districts into Thome for settlement. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire and an interview containing short statements focusing the key issues of investigation. These data were analyzed by running frequencies of distribution along with deductions and inductions based on observed phenomena and responses. Findings suggest that very few small scale farmers visited their kins elsewhere thereby ruling out any exchanges. Most respondents did not visit at all and for those who visited on rare occasions, their motive for visiting was not related to subsistence. The data revealed that the Thome people are more self-reliant than otherwise expected. The people had decided to settle in this hard geographical region because of land ownership. social and economic state were found to be part and parcel of each other. High social status was associated with high economic status and vice-versa.

Water was a major constraint of the study population while wild animals posed a threat to crop management. Social welfare associations should be encouraged through donor boosting and government assistance because such groups are likely to elevate their members' economic capability. Due to the permanent settlement of Thome people, it is recommended that appropriate development programmes should be hatched and these should be aimed at the provision of water, health facilities, transport and agricultural technology within the scheme. It is also recommended that short duration, and drought resistant crops should be introduced in the area. These will be conformable to the erratic rainfall pattern as opposed to the long-duration Maize, and Potato crops, which often fail in the event of rain failure.