Assessment of climate change related disasters in arid and semi-arid lands. A case of Baringo County, Kenya

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to identify Climate Change Related Disasters (CCRDs) in Arid and Semi-arid Lands such as Baringo County. The study used a descriptive survey design. Purposeful sampling and stratified proportionate random sampling procedures were used to obtain the Sample. A sample of 376 households were selected for the study in Baringo County. Questionnaire, key informant interview schedule and observations were the main instruments of data collection. Analysis of data was done using the SPSS. Percentages were used to analyse CCRDs. Drought, storms and floods are climate change related disasters affecting Baringo County. About 80 percent of the households strongly agreed that drought is the most common disasters affecting the County. Vegetation clearance is the main cause of CCRDs in Baringo County hence there is need to increase awareness on climate change and encourage people to use alternative sources of energy and plant trees.