Climate Change Communication in Arid and Semi-arid Areas in Kenya: a Case Study of Arid Lands Information Network

Abstract

The study was based on Arid Lands Information Network (ALIN) communication strategy used in Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) for food security outreach program in Arid and Semi-Arid Land areas (ASAL). Traditional communication approaches like social marketing, media advocacy, and participatory approaches together with policies of organizations like UNFCC framework were linked to come up with a multidisciplinary and multi-stakeholder action. Primary and secondary data collection methods, survey, Key informant interview (KII) were applied with ALIN field staff. 20 respondents were visited and interviewed within Kyuso and Mumoni Districts. Non-probability and cluster sampling methods of data collection were used. Data was also collected using qualitative and quantitative methods, Focus group Discussions(FGDs), in-depth interviews, KII , direct desk review, compilation of documents on recent experiences and best practices in information communication and media at ALIN various levels of understanding and knowledge on CCA . The impact was assessed and rated by identifying livelihoods and the annual level of production. Impact of climate change and its contributory factors by the community and institutions that carry out facilitation on community capacity building, training on livelihoods and adaptation were rated and results analyzed. Test hypothesis based on diffusion of innovation, two step flow theory Mc Guires model of mass communication and their communication aspect of communication strategies was integrated into CCA for food security information dissemination strategies. The study found that many households had low level of awareness on climate change phenomenon indicating the need for communication and awareness intensification. Adopted livelihoods were crop and livestock production, casual labour and petty trade and there was very low annual level of production. Perceived levels of impact of climate change on household livelihoods showed that desertification, drought, famine and food security were the highest. School dropout and low yield failure was the lowest. Large proportion of the population had not received crucial information on issues of seed preservation and seed storage. Capacity building and facilitation organizations included NGOs, Government and line ministries, and community based organizations. 6% to 12% of community members were well trained and understood CCA for food security. Effective communication strategy to raise awareness of the necessity to mitigate and adapt to climate change to a bigger percentage of the population of the community. It would provide framework for delivering key messages and approaches.