Effects of livestock raiding on herd mobility & size in Kenya

The drylands of Kenya are characterised by temporal and spatial climatic variation, making availability of resources uneven. Mobility is a key strategy of pastoralists to efficiently use available pasture and water. Livestock rustling/ raiding disturbs this strategy.

The article “Effects of cattle rustling and household characteristics on migration decisions and herd size amongst pastoralists in Baringo District, Kenya” by George Kaimba et al (2011, Pastoralism 1 (18), 16pp) looks at the effects of livestock rustling and household characteristics on migration decisions and herd size among pastoralists in Baringo District. A total of 110 pastoralists were interviewed. Gender and age of the household head significantly influenced migration and herd size. Intensity of rustling and loss of livestock to drought and/or disease significantly influenced the decision to migrate. Non-livestock income had a significant negative influence on migration and herd size.

The practice of livestock rustling, which is widespread among pastoralists in Kenya and sometimes occurs across borders, influences pastoralists’ decision to migrate and also their herd sizes. It destabilises communities and undermines their normal livelihood strategies, thus contributing to increased poverty. Increasing the level of development in pastoral areas and formulating appropriate policies would help control the rustling menace.

Posted on 24 February 2022 in Pastoralism & Natural Resources, Pastoralism, Mobility & Land Tenure