ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE IN AGRICULTURAL MUNICIPALITIES OF KIAMBU COUNTY: LOCAL STRATEGIES AND INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSES

Abstract

Climate change presents an urgent and growing challenge for agricultural communities in Kenya, particularly in Kiambu County, where farming is a primary economic activity. The region has witnessed increasingly erratic weather patterns, prolonged droughts, and a rise in agricultural pests and diseases, all of which threaten food security and livelihoods. Agricultural municipalities such as Lari, Githunguri, Limuru, and Gatundu are experiencing declining yields in maize, tea, coffee, and dairy due to shifting climate conditions. In response, communities have begun adopting adaptive strategies such as drought-resistant crops, agroforestry, water harvesting, and diversification into non-farming livelihoods. This study investigated the local adaptation strategies employed by agricultural communities in Kiambu and to examine the role of institutional actors, including the county government, NGOs, and community-based organizations. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research incorporates observation and policy review of relevant county and national documents. The findings indicate a growing awareness among farmers of the need to adapt, with localized innovations and collective action emerging as key themes. However, barriers such as limited funding, poor policy implementation, and inadequate access to climate information persist. The study contributes to understanding how local adaptation can be strengthened through inclusive governance and evidence-based planning to build long-term resilience.

Keywords: Adaptation, Climate, County, Municipality, Policy