Saving livestock is a strategy to strengthen climate resilience in Kenya's drylands

Saving livestock is indeed a crucial strategy for strengthening climate resilience in Kenya's drylands, a fact explicitly supported by observations from the country's Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). Drought stands as the primary cause of livestock mortality in these regions, as highlighted by a recent National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) report from January 2026, which indicated a worsening of drought conditions across numerous ASAL counties, with Mandera, Wajir, Kwale, and Kilifi classified in the Alarm phase. This direct link between drought, livestock deaths, and the necessity of intervention underscores why preserving these animals is fundamental to building resilience against climate change impacts. The devastating consequences of livestock loss are profoundly felt by communities whose livelihoods are intrinsically tied to animal husbandry. For instance, Abdirahman Ali Hassan, a farmer from Wajir County, recounted the immense losses he suffered during the 2021–2022 drought, losing more than 100 cattle and approximately 60 camels. This experience, which he described as not only economic but also deeply personal and sorrowful, illustrates the catastrophic impact of climate events on individual households and the broader economy of ASALs. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development estimates that over 2.5 million animals were lost during that period, further emphasizing the scale of the challenge. In response to these recurring crises, farmers and pastoralists in ASALs are actively adapting their practices and embracing innovative technologies to safeguard their herds. This shift involves adopting methods designed to withstand the prolonged droughts, floods, and diseases exacerbated by climate change. The adoption of new, resilient agricultural techniques, such as the cultivation of fast-growing 'juncao' grass, represents a proactive approach to ensuring fodder availability and animal health, thereby directly contributing to the survival of livestock populations during harsh climatic conditions. Ultimately, the strategic focus on saving livestock in Kenya's drylands is a cornerstone of broader climate resilience efforts. By mitigating the direct impacts of drought on animal populations, communities can maintain their primary source of income, food, and cultural heritage. This approach not only protects individual livelihoods but also contributes to the economic stability and food security of the ASAL regions, allowing them to better absorb and recover from future climate shocks.