The role of local institutions in shaping climate risks adaptation processes and practices among the semi-arid rural households of Mwingi, Kenya

Abstract

Low, erratic, unreliable rainfall and frequent droughts are not new to the predominantly subsistence farming households of Mwingi region of Kenya. But the recent increase in drought episodes and unpredictability of onset of rains is perceived as new to this region. Consequently, livelihoods are being lost through crop failures, inaccessibility of water and death of livestock due to lack of pasture and water. A rainbow of institutions, governmental, non- governmental and private are using different strategies in an effort to build capacity of these rural households to live with these climatic vagaries. These strategies include relief food, grants, loans, training on production and value addition, market networking among others, with key delivery mode being through community self help groups. Based on the results of an on-going Phd research on local climate risks adaptation processes and practices, this paper explores the effectiveness of these strategies and the extent to which they embrace concepts of good governance. The target-user evaluation of the strategies and their mode of delivery is discussed. Critical to the debate will be the extent to which these strategies address short- and long-term livelihood needs as well as their feasibility as pathways for sustainable adaptation. In conclusion, the paper will explore amicable strategies and processes for delivering adaptation options.