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Analysing the Indigenous knowledge contributing to the survival of pastoralists in northern Kenya's dry areas
Author
Kagunyu, A
Wandibba, W
Thuranira, E
Publisher
XII International Rangeland Congress
Publication Year
2025
Body

Pastoralists in Northern Kenya have relied on indigenous knowledge for centuries to endure natural disasters such as droughts, famine, floods, and diseases. This study aimed to examine the types of indigenous knowledge applied by livestock keepers in North ern Kenya and how these practices are influenced by climate variability. Guided by resilience theory, data were collected through secondary sources, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observation. The findings reveal that indigenous knowledge is crucial for survival in Kenya's dry areas including a deep understanding of local ecology, facilitating migration to greener pastures during droughts. Pastoralists select livestock species based on their adaptability to specific ecological conditions, enhancing survival rates. Indigenous knowledge is crucial for survival in Kenya's dry areas, encompassing a deep understanding of local ecology and facilitating migration to greener pastures during droughts. Pastoralists select livestock species based on their adaptability to specific ecological conditions, enhancing survival rates —Indigenous weather forecasting methods guide movement, showcasing the effectiveness of traditional knowledge in anticipating environmental changes. Additionally, pastoralists possess extensive knowledge of wild edible plants used for food during drought and employ indigenous food preservation techniques, contributing to food security and sustenance. These findings highlight the critical role of traditional knowledge systems in enhancing adaptive capacity and sustaining livelihoods during calamities. However, the efficacy of indigenous knowledge is eroding due to increasing climate and socio-economic challenges, emphasising the need for sustainable interventions. Integrating Indigenous knowledge into formal policies, conserving biodiversity, and promoting hybrid approaches combining Indigenous knowledge with modern technologies is crucial. Capacity-building, financing for herd restocking, and biodiversity conservation are necessary to safeguard livelihoods amid climatic and socio-economic changes.

Language
English
Resource Type
Text
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Additional Information
This paper is part of the larger XII International Rangelands Congress Proceedings. Page Numbers: 321-325. Theme: Theme 2 / Valuing traditional and Indigenous knowledge: evolution, threats and opportunities
ISSN
978-0-646-72121-7
Conference Name
International Rangeland Congress
Keywords
Indigenous knowledge
survival
dry lands
natural calamities