As the world grapples with the urgent challenges that climate change brings, new doctoral research sheds light on the intricate dynamics of adaptation strategies within rural Kenyan pastoral communities.
The study, by Edwige Marty at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences and Nairobi’s International Livestock Research Institute, delves deep into the socio-ecological complexities that shape livelihoods in the face of escalating climatic stressors.
Technical solutions to climate change adaptation are not enough
The research is based in southern Kenya's dryland pastoral regions. It challenges conventional narratives surrounding adaptation to climate change by scrutinizing the socio-political aspects of adaptation.
Whilst attention to climate change adaptation often focuses on technological solutions, Marty’s research underscores the crucial role of socio-political contexts in shaping how adaptation takes place.
“My research promotes a justice-based approach to adaptation,” explains Marty. “It contributes to providing empirical evidence on the different impacts and risks, as well the changing needs and social aspirations, within pastoral systems.”
Key findings from the study include:
- Role of livelihood diversification: Contrary to how it is supported by development policy, livelihood diversification is not solely oriented towards income generation as an adaptation measure. It also serves as a means for pastoralists to spread out the risks, and to capitalize on opportunities amidst economic uncertainty and climatic variability.
- Role of power dynamics in adapting to climate change: Power dynamics tied to gender, age, education, wealth, and ethnicity influence adaptation strategies and vulnerability patterns within pastoral communities.
- Challenges to climate change adaptation: Despite efforts to adapt to a changing climate, the study uncovers significant limitations at both individual and communal levels, highlighting the need for nuanced approaches to achieve equitable and sustainable transformations.
Marty emphasizes the importance of understanding adaptation processes within their broader socio-political context: "The research challenges conventional framings of adaptation by highlighting the intertwined nature of socio-ecological transformations and power dynamics. By examining these complexities, we can work towards more inclusive and effective adaptation strategies."
The study draws on insights from focus group discussions, interviews, and participatory photovoice sessions with community members (where photographs were taken and selected by participants). Marty analyzed policy documents and archival records to contextualize findings within historical and contemporary development frameworks.
New insights for policy makers in climate change adaptation
The research not only contributes to the fields of critical climate change adaptation studies and political ecology, but also offers practical insights for policymakers and development practitioners working in similar contexts.
For more information about the research findings and methodology, please contact Edwige Marty.
Marty will defend her PhD thesis Adapting to a changing climate amidst multiple livelihood stressors: socially differentiated lived experiences of adaptation processes in southern Kenya on 26 April at NMBU. See the event webpage for details on how to attend.
