Effects of Climate Variability on Wild Edible Plant Products: A Coping Strategy Applied by Pastoralists of Northern Kenya

Drought which is a manifestation of climate variability has become a perennial problem in Kenya with chronic vulnerability being concentrated in Arid and Semi-Arid lands (ASALs). Traditionally, pastoralists have used wild edible plant products namely; fruits, vegetables and seeds as a coping strategy while faced by climate related calamities. However, recent studies have shown that pastoralists’ traditional coping strategies have become weak as a result of recurrent droughts. The overall objective of this study was to investigate the effects of climate variability on wild edible plant products. This study applied; household interviews (n=400), focus group discussions and key informant interviews to collect data. Quantitative data derived from the household interviews were edited, coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 spread sheets. Descriptive statistics were run to give frequencies and percentages. Results of this study indicate that wild plant fruits and vegetables were occasionally used as food by pastoralists during the time of droughts. Findings also indicate that recurrent droughts have affected the availability of wild edible plants that pastoralists used to rely on, hence increasing the distance, they travel to look for such products. This study revealed that some new plants have sprouted in the area but they are not fit for human consumption. This study came up with two recommendations on the need to train livestock keepers on appropriate coping strategies which are sustainable and on the best methods of conserving the available wild edible plants in their locality

Culture as a mediator of climate change adaptation: Neither static nor unidirectional

Though there is increasing recognition of the cultural dimensions that shape climate change adaptation, our experience from working with actors engaged in adaptation policy and practice suggests that the role of culture still tends to be conceived in overly narrow and fixed terms. This is exemplified in portrayals of conservative cultural norms as stifling positive change. A growing body of research across the world indicates that the reality is seldom as simple as this – culture works in complex and variable ways, and, most importantly, is inherently dynamic. Drawing especially from research work on vulnerability and adaptation conducted in semi-arid regions, we illustrate this argument by briefly exploring three themes - multiple knowledge systems for farming in Botswana, the dynamics of pastoralist values and livelihoods in Kenya, and the interplay of caste and livelihood choices in India. Understanding how different facets of culture such as these operate in context helps move away from viewing culture statically as a barrier or enabler, and toward a more plural and dynamic appreciation of the role of culture in adaptation. This includes recognising the potential for factors that may be construed as barriers to become enablers. Critical, balanced engagement with cultural dimensions in both research and practice, understanding and working with these dynamic social structures, is essential if adaptation is to create meaningful and lasting change for those who need it most