Emerging resource use conflicts between Kenyan fishermen, pastoralists and tribesmen of Lake Turkana

Authors

  • E. O. Yongo Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P.O. Box 1881 Kisumu Kenya
  • R. O. Abila Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P.O. Box 1881 Kisumu Kenya
  • C. Lwenya Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P.O. Box 1881 Kisumu Kenya

Keywords:

alternative livelihoods, fragile ecosystem, sustainability

Abstract

Frequent droughts over the years causing partial or total loss of livestock caused the community to take up fishing in Lake Turkana as an alternative activity for survival. The objective of the study was to get baseline information on the socio-economic situation in Lake Turkana area. Survey revealed that in recent years there have been increased incidences of insecurity and cattle rustling, which has driven more pastoralists into fishing. Most respondents indicated they were primarily fishers, followed by pastoralists. Most fished in the shallow inshore areas using mainly gillnets and purse seine nets. The greatest concern of the fishers is the conflict with the tribesmen of southern Ethiopia. The fishing offers an opportunity for the pastoral communities to settle down to a sedentary lifestyle, making it easier to access health, educational and other essential services. Women are also involved, though in low numbers, some of whom own boats and gears. Currently, fishery resources in offshore areas are unexploited, but there is a need to control pressure in inshore shallow areas.

References

Government of Kenya. 2005. Turkana District Vision and Strategy Natural resource Management (2005–2015)

Government of Kenya. 2005. Report of Natural Resource Management Information, Awareness and Consultative Workshop. Held at Lake Turkana Fishing Lodge, Kalokol 2005 January 19th–22nd. Arid Lands Resource Management Project II

Hopson, A. J., ed. 1982. Lake Turkana. A report on the findings of the Lake Turkana project 1972–1975. Volumes 1-6, London. London: Overseas Development Administration.

KMFRI. 2007. Lake Turkana: Fisheries, People and the Future Technical report on Lake Turkana, Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) – Inland Water Stations 2007

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Published

2010-02-26

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 1 (2010): Changing Great Lakes of the World and Rift Valley Lakes: Sustainability, Integrity & Management (GLOW V, Part I)

Section

Research article

License

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