Impact of climate change on fishery-based livelihoods: a case study of fishing communities around lake Naivasha, Kenya

Abstract

This research paper examines the impact of climate change on fishery- based livelihoods around Lake Naivasha. Lake Naivasha has been the main source of livelihood for people living around it although in the recent years, effects of climate change have been experienced. It has been argued by fishing communities around Lake Naivasha that economic activities and food security, to a greater extent, has been adversely affected by changes in weather patterns. This is experienced in form of declining fish quantities and ever changing water patterns. The study endeavoured to examine, the fishing community perception on climate change, examined the impact of climate change on Lake Naivasha fish quantity and finally examined how communities are adopting to climate change. The research study employed a descriptive survey design which is concerned with generalized statistics that result when data is obtained from the respondents. The researcher used questionnaires, focus group discussions, interviews and observation to collect data. With a target population of 150 simple random sampling was used to collect data from respondents in these categories namely; Fishermen, Boat owners, Transporters and Fish mongers totaling to 90 respondents. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS). Both qualitative and quantitative data analysis was used to analyze the data. The findings were presented through descriptive statistics by use of frequencies, tables, graphs and pie-charts. The analysis was on the impact of climate change on fishery-based livelihoods around Lake Naivasha. After the study it came out clearly that more than half of respondents had knowledge on climate change and its effects. The findings showed that communities suffer from escalating lose from climate change. These included reduced income, bad debts and low job opportunities for fishing crew. They blamed the declining fish catch on climate change. Fish quantities have declined due to climate change. Although communities are trying to adapt to climate changes through various means including fish farming and afforestation, many of them lack enough capital for installation of various adaptation strategies. The study findings clearly indicated that climate change has had a great impact to the fishing communities surrounding the lake. The study recommends that there is need for a clear policy on climate change adaptation by both County and Central Governments. Protection of the catchment areas and protecting the riparian habitat (the papyrus) where fish breeds should be enhanced. Based on recommendations the study proposes that similar studies should be carried out to focus more on climate change adaptation strategies.