Building Resilience to Climate Change Related Disasters in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands a Case of Baringo County

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to determine how households cope with effects of Climate Change Related Disasters (CCRDs) in arid and semi-arid Lands such as Baringo County. The study used a descriptive survey design. Purposeful sampling and stratified proportionate random sampling procedures were used to obtain the sample. A sample of 376 households were selected for the study in Baringo County. Questionnaire, key informant interview schedule and observations were the main instruments of data collection. Analysis of data was done using the SPSS. Percentages were used to analyze CCRDs. Drought, storms and floods are climate change related triggers of disasters that affect Baringo County. About 80 percent of the households strongly agreed that drought is the most common hazard affecting the County. Vegetation clearance is the main cause of CCRDs in Baringo County. Hence, the need to increase awareness on climate change and encourage people to use alternative sources of energy and plant trees. Majority of the households engaged in rainwater harvesting that enable them cope with impacts of drought and floods. Early warning and monitoring of the disasters can help to reduce vulnerability.