Abstract
Controversial climate change studies purport that predicted food insecurity and resource scarcity will intensify resource conflicts in developing nations. This belief is based on a prevalent assumption that African agricultural production systems are rigid and that their respective governments lack comprehensive adaptation ability. Therefore, I investigate whether and how effective post- drought adaptation activity is sustaining food production and livelihoods at Loitoktok district in Kenya. This study uses the theoretical three-step ecosystem service governance approach that analyzes both natural resources attributes and relational data. Results confirm a substantial decline in productivity and huge monetary losses in the agricultural sector of Loitoktok following the 2009 drought. Post-drought analysis reveals high diversification in crops and livestock that are drought-tolerant, fast maturing and high income generating such as camels, rabbits and dairy goats, horticultural and fruit production that sustain food security, income and local livelihoods. These reactive adaptation activities originate from an active public-private cooperation that promotes knowledge exchange among Loitoktok stakeholders. This cooperation is also seen in the efficient resource conflict resolution network. In conclusion, rural communities seem to be efficiently adapting to changing environmental conditions but require more financial and technical support from the government. Unfortunately, appraisal of national planned adaptation reveals effort-duplication that may divert much needed adaptation funds from being invested in research projects with multiple benefits to Kenyan food producers.
Highlights
Ecosystem services are the benefits obtained from nature and are divided into four main categories; provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services [1]
Though many forms of adaptation exist [12], this study focuses on two specific types: a) Reactive adaptation refers to specific changes by an individual that are informed by direct negative climatic experience and which cause resources to be targeted to known risks to alleviate negative impacts once they have occurred. b) Planned adaptation is executed mainly by governments and takes place prior to forecast events
Monetary Value of Food Production a) Crops Crops are classified into subsistence crops such as maize (Zea mays) and beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) for local consumption, horticultural and fruits crops that are grown for external markets
Summary
Ecosystem services are the benefits obtained from nature and are divided into four main categories; provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services [1]. This study centres on provisioning ecosystem services which are defined as raw products such as food, fuel, fibre, fresh water, bio-chemicals and genetic resources that are harvested from nature. The study is based on food products obtained from plants and animals under subsistence agricultural supervision. Food provision as an ecosystem service clearly confirms a vital link between the environment and rural livelihoods through two main aspects. Rural food security systems generate income through diverse livelihoods of smallholder farmers, forest dwellers, pastoralists and artisanal fisher folk [3]. Pest and disease prevention for crops Climate adaptation Frequent training sessions for resource users Pasture reestablishment and hay storage.
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