Water Scarcity Impact of Rural Livelihood Choices in Kieni Sub Counties, Kenya

Abstract

Poverty in developing countries escalates environmental predicaments among rural populations in arid and semi (ASAL) communities. A key understated outcome of livelihood occupations on human wellbeing is their consequence on water scarcity. Yet, most studies involving poverty and the environment overlook implications of rural livelihood options on the environment in marginal areas. The objective of this study was to examine water scarcity impact of household livelihoods in Kieni East and West sub counties of Nyeri County in Kenya. This was essential as rural ASAL populations are most affected by scarcity of water resources. The study adopted cross sectional mixed method approach that applied household survey for quantitative data collection. The qualitative data gathering techniques included semi structured interviews, focused group discussions and desk reviews. Proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used to inaugurate a 400 sample size from a targeted population of 51,304 households. The study used independent T-Test to test statistical significance at p<0.05 for the two sites. Multiple regression techniques were applied to determine the influence of livelihood options on water scarcity in the study area. Based on the analysis, the study found linkage between livelihoods and water scarcity to be significant. Overall results at the two sites revealed water scarcity as predominantly instigated by household participation in forest based activities [B=0.264], livestock activities [B=0.184], and crop based activities [B=0.169] respectively. The results also demonstrated a higher impact of forest activities on water scarcity in Kieni East [B=0.313] than in Kieni West [B=0.231] at p<0.001; while livestock activities impact on water scarcity was more substantial in Kieni West [B=0.233] at P<0.05, compared to Kieni East [B=0.154] at p<0.05. The study concluded with some recommendations for policy and research consideration.