Cooperating countries: Kenya, Austria

Coordinating institution: Paris Lodron Universität Salzburg

Project coordinator: Lorenz Wendt

Partner institution: Technical University of Kenya

Project duration: 1 December 2025 - 30 November 2027

Budget: 39.740,00 €

Climate change significantly impacts pastoral communities in Kenya, threatening livestock production and rangeland health. Erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and frequent droughts have led to declining livestock productivity, posing a serious risk to food security for pastoralists and the broader population. Livestock mobility is a key adaptation strategy, enabling pastoralists to navigate optimal routes for accessing forage and water. This strategy relies on a mix of traditional and local knowledge on weather conditions, security, and landscape dynamics. However, the role of traditional knowledge in rangeland management remains underexplored. This study aims to develop an integrated model for optimal livestock mobility by combining climate and environmental data from Earth Observation products, socio-economic and political information, and expert and local pastoralist knowledge, while addressing potential data biases to ensure accurate and reliable outcomes. Through two field trips to Kenya, the research team will conduct interviews and community mapping workshops with pastoralists and stakeholders to gather insights and ground data. The Kenya Team will visit Austria to assist in analyzing initial findings and developing the model. The output model will serve as a predictive tool for assessing climate variability’s impacts on pastoral systems, identifying optimal timing and locations for livestock movement, enhancing resilience and supporting food security. The model and maps produced will support the local authorities in co-designing rangeland management strategies, contributing to Sustainable Development Goals 2, 10, 13 and 15 SDG by supporting sustainable livelihood and empowering pastoralists communities.