Climate Change And Gender Vulnerability Of Buyangu Forest-Dependent Community In Kakamega County, Kenya

Abstract

Climate change poses a great challenge to the livelihoods of Buyangu-forest dependent community in Kakamega County. The effects cut across both gender groups thereby exacerbating the vulnerability of men and women in Buyangu. However, despite the challenges, men and women are expected to adapt but various factors hinder their processes. This study was therefore conducted to determine the levels of vulnerability to climate change among men and women dependent on forest resources for their livelihoods in Buyangu village adjacent to Kakamega Forest. The study adopted a transdisplinary approach through engagement of all stakeholders in assessing the complexities of climate change and the solutions to enhance future resilience in the community. Primary data were obtained through household surveys, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and field observations. Household survey questionnaire was employed to collect data from 203 households living within six kilometres from the forest edge. Climate data on temperature and rainfall were sourced from the Kakamega Meteorological Station, and were analysed to establish the historical trends. Mann Kendall tests and Sen’s Slope Estimator were used to establish long term rainfall (1923-2015) and temperature (1980-2015) variations. Findings revealed a warming trend on both mean annual maximum temperatures and mean annual minimum temperatures by 0.04 oC/year and 0.02 oC/year, respectively. Moreover, analysis on annual precipitation (1923 – 2015) indicated an increase of 0.068mm/year, however, mean monthly rainfall showed a decreasing trend. As a result, crop production is affected with reduced yields in maize, sugarcane and vegetables. Livestock production is also impacted and respondents reported milk declines, low livestock market values and herd size reduction. While both gender groups are affected by climate change, women bear the most brunt due to their high dependence on natural resources. Nevertheless, both gender groups are struggling to cope with climate change and variability. The study generated useful knowledge that will inform local policy makers in the formulating relevant adaptation strategies that will enhance resilience of forest-dependent community. Specifically, Buyangu community needs to practice agroforestry, intercropping and rain water harvesting that have capacities of improving agricultural yields while maintaining environmental services such as climate change mitigation, watershed protection and biodiversity conservation. The study recommends the integration of all local and national players in formulating adaptation strategies to address the effects of climate change on the community.