Climate adaptation partnerships for enhanced adaptive capacity: The case of fodder production among the communities in the lower Eastern Kenya

Abstract

Crop and livestock production are major subsectors of agriculture upon which most rural households in Kenya depend for their livelihoods. However, these subsectors are the most affected by climate variability and change, especially in the dry lands. Drought which is one of the major manifestations of climate change has become more common and frequent with adverse effects, leading to massive crop failures and livestock mortalities. Various stakeholders and institutions have been involved in a number of multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary programs aimed at enhancing adaption to climate change among the local communities particularly in the dry lands of Kenya. A desktop-based study was adopted for in-depth literature review to evaluate partnerships that various stakeholders and institutions have adopted and how they have impacted adaptation to climate change in Kibwezi sub-county, in the lower eastern dry lands of Kenya. This study found that the local community members, KALRO, FAO of the United Nations, and the national and county governments have collaborated and partnered at various levels in not only to enhance fodder production and marketing for improved spatial-temporal availability of pastures for livestock but also as an alternative source of income through the sale of hay and grass seeds. This intervention will enhance adoption of fodder Keywords: adaptation, climate change, fodder production, marketing, partnerships.