In the dry, windswept landscapes of Kenya’s frontier counties, livestock is more than just an asset—it is a way of life. For generations, pastoralist communities have depended on their cattle, camels, goats, and sheep for food, income, and cultural identity. But in recent years, unpredictable weather, disease outbreaks, and growing conflicts over land and water have put this way of life at risk.
For many pastoralists, an outbreak of disease can mean the difference between survival and poverty. In 2024, when a deadly livestock disease threatened herds in Turkana County, a mass vaccination campaign covered over 230,000 animals. Herds that would have otherwise perished were saved, giving families the security to plan for the future. One herder expressed his relief, explaining how he had lost animals to disease in previous years but was now hopeful. “Without healthy animals, we have nothing. This program has given us hope.”
In Marsabit County, the outbreak of Rift Valley Fever put thousands of animals at risk. The response was swift, reaching more than 300,000 goats, sheep, camels, and cattle. Families that once faced devastating losses were able to protect their herds, safeguarding their primary source of income.
But disease is only one of many challenges threatening pastoralist livelihoods. With dry seasons growing longer and pastures becoming scarce, finding enough food for livestock has become increasingly difficult.
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For years, many herders watched helplessly as their animals grew weak from hunger. A training program in Garissa and Tana River Counties introduced farmers to sustainable fodder production, storage, and processing, offering a long-term solution.
One farmer shared how learning to grow and store fodder transformed his situation. “Before, we depended on nature. If there was no rain, our animals suffered. Now, I can grow my own feed, and my livestock are stronger.” With improved fodder production, families no longer have to travel long distances in search of pasture, reducing stress on both animals and herders. The result has been healthier livestock, better milk production, and a more stable source of income.
For many pastoralist communities, land ownership has always been uncertain. Without clear boundaries, disputes over grazing areas often lead to conflict, tension, and even violence. Securing land rights has been a critical step in reducing conflicts, with support for community land registration efforts in Isiolo and Marsabit Counties. By helping communities document and secure their land rights, the program is ensuring that herders can plan for the future with confidence. One elder in Isiolo put it simply: “Now, we know where our land begins and ends. This brings peace.”
Additionally, new grazing plans have been developed to regulate the movement of livestock across county borders. With structured agreements in place, clashes over pasture and water are decreasing, replaced by fair resource-sharing arrangements that benefit all communities involved.
Conflict over resources has long fueled tensions among pastoralist communities. However, dialogue and cooperation are proving to be powerful alternatives to violence. Throughout 2024, peacebuilding meetings in Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, and Garissa brought together elders, community leaders, and government officials to find solutions.
One participant reflected on how these meetings changed his perspective: “We used to see each other as enemies. Now, we talk before problems escalate. This has saved lives.” The launch of Alternative Justice System (AJS) Suites in Isiolo has further strengthened peace efforts by integrating traditional conflict resolution with formal legal systems. These community-driven mechanisms provide a faster, more effective way of settling disputes, reducing tensions before they turn into full-scale conflicts.
Beyond immediate interventions, strengthening pastoralist institutions has been a key focus. The formation of the Tana River County Pastoral Association has provided a structured platform for rangeland management and pastoralist advocacy. An annual learning event brought together key stakeholders to review progress, share best practices, and refine strategies for long-term sustainability. A mid-term review of the program highlighted not only its successes but also areas for further improvement, ensuring that lessons learned translate into stronger outcomes in the years ahead.
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