Understanding Extreme Climatic Events for Economic Development in Kenya

Abstract

Kenya is an agri-based economy that heavily relies on rainfall performance. Unfortunately, changes in rainfall patterns have threatened the agricultural sector since it is largely rain-fed. The frequent occurrence and increased severity of climatic extremes, particularly droughts and floods, have led to slow economic development in the affected areas. However, the impacts on the economy vary from one hydrometeorological disaster to the other depending on their characteristics. From the case studies of Laikipia and Bunyala sub-counties in Kenya, the study established an increasing trend in both the frequency and magnitude of floods and droughts. Prolonged and severe flood and drought events had adverse impacts on economic development through (a) decrease in agricultural production, (b) poor prices for livestock and agricultural produce and (c) destruction of the immediate environment which in turn exacerbate the impacts. An inverse relationship between economic development and the magnitude of the disaster was established. The consequence have been increased poverty levels in the areas due to slow economic development.