Adoption and Barriers to Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies for Food Security in the Lower Nyando Basin, Kenya

Abstract

Climate change is a critical threat to food security, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where livelihoods are highly dependent on climate-sensitive sectors such as rain-fed agriculture and fisheries. In Kenya, the Lower Nyando Basin (LNB) exemplifies this vulnerability, with communities facing recurrent floods and prolonged droughts that disrupt food production and exacerbate poverty. Despite growing promotion of climate-smart practices, evidence on the extent of adoption, their effectiveness in improving food security, and the barriers constraining their impact at the community level remains limited. This study sought to assess household adoption of climate change adaptation and mitigation measures, examine their relationship with food security, and identify systemic constraints limiting their effectiveness in the LNB. A mixed-methods cross-sectional design was employed, combining a household survey of 378 respondents with 12 key informant interviews and 10 focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and regression models, while qualitative data were thematically analysed and triangulated with survey results to enrich contextual understanding. Findings revealed high levels of adaptation, with more than 90% of households adopting drought-resistant and early-maturing crop varieties, crop diversification, and indigenous seeds. Irrigation, water harvesting, and watershed management were also reported, though adoption was constrained by high costs and limited technical support. Adaptation was positively associated with improved food security outcomes, as households employing multiple strategies reported fewer incidences of hunger and more stable food access. However, food insecurity persisted, with many households experiencing shortages lasting up to four months annually, especially during extreme climatic events. Major barriers included financial constraints, high input and irrigation costs, inadequate extension services, technical knowledge gaps, and limited participation in adaptation planning. The study concludes that while communities in the LNB are proactive in adopting climate-smart practices, structural and institutional barriers undermine their transformative potential. Addressing these constraints through enhanced financial inclusion, participatory governance, improved extension services, and investment in climate-resilient infrastructure will be critical for achieving sustainable food security in climate-vulnerable landscapes.