THE INTERFACE BETWEEN CLIMATE CHANGE AND FOOD INSECURITY: THE CASE OF KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The purpose of the study was to examine the interface between climate change and food insecurity in Kenya, analyzing the mechanisms by which climate change impacts food security, the current state of food insecurity in the country, and the adaptation strategies being employed to address these challenges.
Problem Statement: Food insecurity is a persistent and growing concern in Kenya, with millions of people lacking access to sufficient food for consumption. Kenya’s agricultural sector remains highly vulnerable to climate shocks, with unpredictable rainfall patterns and recurring droughts significantly disrupting crop production and exacerbating food insecurity.
Methodology: The study was a literature-based review, synthesizing findings from various research papers, reports, and data sources. This comprehensive approach facilitated a holistic examination of the complex relationship between climate change and food insecurity in Kenya.
Results of the Study: The study found that climate change has both direct and indirect effects on food security in Kenya. Direct impacts include reduced crop yields due to changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, while indirect effects encompass impacts on household incomes, access to water, and overall health status. The research also underscored the importance of adaptation strategies and indigenous knowledge in mitigating the impacts of climate change on food security. However, it noted that current adaptation efforts may not be sufficient to fully address the escalating challenges posed by climate change.
Conclusion: The study concludes that addressing food insecurity in the face of climate change requires a comprehensive strategy that considers the specific needs and vulnerabilities of different regions in Kenya. It highlights the need for promoting resilient food systems and sustainable development practices to enhance food security in the country.
Recommendations: The study recommends a multifaceted approach to addressing the climate change-food insecurity nexus in Kenya. This includes integrating climate change adaptation strategies into national and local food security policies, strengthening the adaptive capacity of vulnerable communities, enhancing cross-sectoral collaboration, and scaling up investment in both climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for continued research and monitoring to better understand the evolving dynamics of the climate change-food insecurity interface and to inform evidence-based policymaking.
Keywords: Climate change, food insecurity, Kenya
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