Evaluation of Agroforestry Practices for Climate Adaptation Strategies in Narok County

Abstract

Climate change has intensified environmental degradation, livelihood insecurity, and socio-economic vulnerability in climate-sensitive regions such as Narok County, Kenya. In response to these challenges, agroforestry has been recognized as a sustainable land-use strategy capable of enhancing climate resilience while supporting livelihoods. This study, titled The Effectiveness of Agroforestry Practices as Climate Adaptation Strategies in Narok, examined the role of agroforestry in reducing climate vulnerability and strengthening community resilience in Narok County. Guided by Securitization Theory, the paper used case study research design and employed a mixed-methods approach integrating qualitative and quantitative techniques. Narok was selected due to its ecological diversity, dependence on climate-sensitive livelihoods such as agriculture and pastoralism, and increasing exposure to climate variability. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and contextual analysis. The findings revealed that 68% of surveyed households practiced some form of agroforestry. Farmers prioritized fruit trees for food security and fast-growing timber species for income generation. The paper established that contour-based tree planting in hilly areas such as Mau Narok contributed to reducing soil erosion and improving ecosystem stability. Agroforestry practices also enhanced household resilience by diversifying income sources and providing alternative food and fodder resources during periods of climate stress and crop failure. The study concludes that agroforestry is a strategy for reducing climate vulnerability in Narok through improved environmental conservation, livelihood diversification, and strengthened food security. It recommends the promotion of indigenous nitrogen-fixing and drought-tolerant tree species, including Moringa oleifera, to enhance adaptation to the county’s semi-arid conditions.