Project Financier: Christian Aid / Climate Justice Resilience Fund (CJRF)
Project Year: 2020 (Completed)
Implementing Organization: Asben Eco Consultants and Capacity Building Ltd / Climate Change Adaptation Evidence Hub
Project Summary:
The Climate Change Adaptation Evidence Hub conducted an extensive study in Marsabit and Samburu Counties to assess women and youth participation in climate change governance and natural resource management. The project was commissioned under the broader programme Strengthening Pastoralist Community Resilience to Climate Change in Marsabit and Samburu Counties, Kenya funded by Christian Aid through the Climate Justice Resilience Fund (CJRF).
The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of climate resilience interventions in promoting inclusive participation of women and youth in climate governance, decision-making, natural resource management, and resilience-building processes. The study also aimed to generate evidence to guide future climate programming and policy development in arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya.
Using household surveys, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and policy analysis, the study examined barriers and opportunities affecting women and youth engagement in climate adaptation initiatives. It assessed participation in budgeting, planning, community institutions, early warning systems, and climate-resilient livelihood diversification activities.
The findings demonstrated that targeted capacity-building and facilitation significantly improved participation of women and youth in public participation forums and local climate governance structures. The project also highlighted the importance of gender-responsive climate policies, inclusive governance systems, and locally-led adaptation initiatives.
The study produced actionable recommendations for strengthening gender-responsive climate governance, enhancing social inclusion, and promoting equitable access to climate resilience resources and opportunities in Kenya’s dryland counties.