Livelihood diversification influence on socioeconomic wellbeing of Maasai women in Isinya, Kajiado County, Kenya

Abstract

Livelihood diversification among the pastoral communities is currently a common occurrence due to changes in climate and human population. This study assessed the influence of business activities and wildlife tourism related activities on the socioeconomic wellbeing of Maasai women in Isinya, Kajiado County, Kenya. A stratified random sample of 279 women were selected from households in the study area and interviewed using semi-structured questionnaire in 2017. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics which involved simple linear regression model and Chi-square techniques. Four Focus Group Discussions were conducted for the household survey data while interview schedule was applied for key informants. The results showed that the wellbeing of the Maasai women were significantly (p<0.001) and positively affected by diversification into the business activities (β =0 451) and wildlife and tourism related activities (β =0 328). The study concludes that with the changing climate and reduction in land sizes owned by the pastoral communities, livelihood diversification towards business and wildlife activities would assist women to improve their standard of living. The study recommends diversification towards business and wildlife enterprises since they give individuals and households more capabilities to improve livelihood security and also to raise their living standards.