Climate Variability and Response Strategies among the Gadamoji Agro-Pastoralists of Marsabit County, Kenya
Halkano J. Boru, James K. A. Koske

Abstract
Climate is perceived to be changing thus calling for understanding of livelihoods strategies to guide in developing climate-resilient livelihoods. This study assess the perception of climate variability, impacts and household response strategies among agro-pastoralists in the period 1998-2012 in Gadamoji division of Marsabit County. Data were collected from 133 households and 3 Focused Groups. Results show that local people are aware of rainfall and temperature variability and its impacts on their livelihoods. Key perceived impacts include increased food insecurity, reduced livestock holdings and increased water shortage. Consequently, most households have adopted response strategies resulting in reduced nature-based livelihoods and increased in alternative non-farm activities. However, these strategies were found to be inadequate and largely pursued in a random manner as well as hampered by challenges ranging from poverty, unreliable climatic information to inadequate knowledge on alternative livelihoods. The study recommends increased awareness on climate variability and support to current and potential livelihoods strategies.

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