Browsing by Author "STANLEY KIBIWOT TIREITO"

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    DROUGHT PREPAREDNESS STRATEGIES AND FOOD SECURITY: A CASE OF POKOT CENTRAL SUB-COUNTY, WEST POKOT COUNTY, KENYA
    (THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2024-09) STANLEY KIBIWOT TIREITO
    Pokot Central Sub County in West Pokot County, Kenya, is the most drought-stricken and food-insecure region as of 2022. The region faces severe threats to livestock, agriculture and food accessibility, exacerbated by delayed, reactive drought response strategies and limited resources. This study evaluated current drought preparedness strategies and their effectiveness in enhancing food security. Specific objectives were to assess the socio-economic factors influencing drought preparedness and food security, evaluate the effectiveness of water management strategies, analyze the role and effectiveness of early warning systems and examine the influence of institutional structures on food security during drought periods. The study used vulnerability and resilience and complex adaptive systems theories to explore these interrelationships. A mixed-method approach with a convergent parallel design was adopted, targeting 22,041 households in Pokot Central. A sample of 396 households was selected through stratified random sampling and 20 key informants were chosen using purposive sampling. Descriptive analysis outlined drought preparedness and food security, while thematic and content analysis were used for qualitative data. Regression and correlation analysis determined relationships between socio-economic factors, water management, early warning systems and food security. Key findings revealed a positive correlation between higher income levels and food security (r=0.15, p=0.000), a strong positive correlation between effective water management and food security (r=0.65, p=0.000) and a positive association between early warning awareness and food security (r=0.155, p=0.000). However, institutional transparency and accountability negatively predicted food security (β=-0.085, p=0.018), highlighting the need for greater institutional integrity. Recommendations include enhancing drought risk management, promoting water-efficient agricultural practices and improving early warning dissemination. An integrated approach involving government agencies, NGOs and local communities is crucial for effective drought response. Future research should focus on sustainability and community-driven solutions for long-term food security.