Perspectives on the veiled potential of the one-humped camel (Camelus dromedaries), and its perceived future role in mitigating the devastating effects of climate change and in enhancing ASAL livelihoods in Kenya

Abstract

Perspectives on the veiled potential of the one-humped camel (Camelus dromedaries), and its perceived future role in mitigating the devastating effects of climate change and in enhancing ASAL livelihoods in Kenya Wamwere Njoroge, G.J. Community Development Officer, GoK/ADB ASAL Based Livestock and Rural Livelihoods Support Project (ALLPRO),Ministry of Livestock Development,P.O. Box 34188, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya,Email; gwjnjoroge@yahoo.com Abstracts This paper gives a synthesis that attempts to lays bare the enormous untapped treasure inherent in the mysterious C. dromedaries (alas “Desert Car”), with specific emphasis on ASALs zones of Kenya. Historically, droughts have manifested a well known phenomenon of predictable cyclic occurrence, a character that had enabled ASAL dwellers to develop coping strategies that had served them well for generations. To the contrary, empirical research in the recent years has shown that as a consequence of the adverse effects of climate change and global warming, the droughts will henceforth be marked with the triple character of being more frequent, prolonged and intensive. This coupled with unchecked population increase has lead to devastating effect on both national and household food security, especially to the residents of Arid and Semi-arid Lands, who utterly rely on only livestock, hence a mono livelihood source. Among the domesticated animal species, the camel is the only creature that can stand in the gap and provide a worthy alternative to this grim scenario. It therefore the conclusion of this analysis that due to the demonstrated camel superior traits compared to other livestock species that include: the assured survival and continued productivity even in extreme climatic conditions and proven value of camel milk as healthy food are just some few indicators to the future role of the camel in mitigating the unstoppable negative effects of climate change and in enhancing livelihoods both within and without their traditional areas