Pastoral neolithic settlement behaviour in the Central Rift Valley of Kenya
Abstract
This study looked at Pastoral Neolithic settlement behaviour in the Central Rift
Valley of Kenya. The research focused on four key prehistoric sites, that is, Hyrax
Hill, Crescent Island, Gamble's Cave and Njoro River Cave. The main objective
of the research was to establish the adaptive strategies that the Pastoral Neolithic
people used to cope with their habitat. Specifically, the study intended to identify
the factors that influenced the settlement of prehistoric communities in the study
area. The study also examined the nature and significance of the spatio-temporal
organization of the Pastoral Neolithic communities in the area. The research was
guided by three theories, that is, systems ecological theory, settlement pattern
theory, and community area theory.
Data were collected using survey aided by GIS technology, mapping, photography
and sketch drawings. Non-cultural materials like water points, pasture, rainfall
variation and distribution, as well as landscape were analysed in regard to how
they influenced settlement and supported pastoral economy. The findings are
presented in the form of tables, plates and sketch drawings. Cultural materials like
pottery and lithic tools were analysed in terms of their presumed function, methods
and style of manufacture and the raw material used.
The study findings indicate that Pastoral Neolithic activities in the Central Rift
were largely determined by the environment. Pastoral Neolithic communities were
involved in many socio-economic activities as indicated by the sites. The findings
also suggest a people who had complex socio-economic networks and used their
technical skills to adapt to the environment.
In conclusion, the research indicates that environmental resources like pasture,
water, and well drained soils that support pastoral economies played a key role in
the nature and choice of settlements. Other factors included altitude, landscape,
and security. Apart from animal herding, Pastoral Neolithic communities were
engaged in diverse activities ranging from stone tool manufacture, pottery making
and hunting. The study recommends further studies in this subject to understand
other issues like mobility, livestock diversity, plant communities as well as
productivity and disease since these affect the total lifestyles of pastoralists.