EFFICACY OF FARMERS’ INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE IN CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION IN THARAKA SOUTH SUB COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the study: The study evaluated the efficacy of farmers’ indigenous knowledge practices in climate change adaptation in Tharaka South Sub-County, Kenya.
Statement of the problem: Limited integration of indigenous knowledge into formal climate change adaptation strategies continues to constrain agricultural resilience among smallholder farmers in Kenya, especially in semi-arid areas. Although farmers use formal adaptation strategies, many also rely on time-tested indigenous knowledge systems developed through local experience. However, the extent to which these practices effectively support climate change adaptation in Tharaka South Sub-County remains insufficiently established.
Research methodology: The study was guided by Resilience Theory and Decolonial Theory and adopted a correlational research design. From a target population of 10,968 farming households, a sample of 386 respondents was determined using Slovin’s formula at a 95% confidence level and a 0.05 margin of error. Data were collected using researcher-administered and self-administered questionnaires, complemented by key informant interviews with representatives from ICE, SwedBio, agricultural officials, and community opinion leaders. Quantitative data were analyzed using Spearman’s rank-order correlation coefficient at α = 0.05.
Findings: Strong positive correlations were observed between several indigenous practices and perceived climate adaptation efficacy. Biological weather forecasting was positively correlated with forecast accuracy ( = .568, p < .001), while cultivation of drought-tolerant crops was associated with food security ( = .555, p < .001) and traditional soil and water conservation was associated with reduced crop failure ( = .544, p < .001). Consultation with indigenous knowledge experts was not significantly associated with yield stability ( = -.042, p = .416) or soil conservation ( = -.064, p = .218).
Conclusion: The study concludes that practical indigenous knowledge practices remain effective, affordable, and sustainable approaches to strengthening rural climate resilience. Their efficacy is strongest where farmers directly apply field-based practices rather than relying solely on advisory consultation.
Recommendations: The study recommends that the Tharaka-Nithi County Government should support access to traditional drought-tolerant seeds, including sorghum, cowpeas, green grams, and millet. The county should also integrate indigenous weather indicators with scientific meteorological forecasts to improve local farming calendars. Farmer training should prioritize practical indigenous soil, water, crop, and pest management practices.
Keywords: Indigenous knowledge, climate change, climate change adaptation, agricultural planning, agricultural resilience, smallholder farmers
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