Integrating Livestock Production with Forest Management among Leroghi Forest Adjacent Pastoral Communities in Samburu County, Kenya

Background

The study examines a forest based livestock production system in Samburu Country, Kenya. It focuses on nomadic and semi-nomadi pastoralists whom rely on water, dry season fodder, and pastures for their livelihoods. 

Research Goals & Methods

The goal of the study was to assess the community’s socio-economic characteristics, document the trends in the livestock population, and assess the level of forest use in livestock, production by the forest adjacent local community. The study focused on Sanataa forest, where the authors conducted a household survey in Angata Nanyikie sub-location. The findings in the survey were then verified during two seperate village workshops.

Conclusions & Takeaways

The author found that livestock trade significant contributes to employment and household income.  The study suggests that in order for the system to be sustainable, there must be controlled grazing practices including incentives, taxation, awareness raising, alternative settlements for forest dwellers, and alternate income strains for those relying heavily on forest resources.