Pastoralism And Range Land Management In Ngoma Subcounty.

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to explore the impact of pastoralism on rangeland

management in Ngoma sub-county. This was after the realization of the degradation

of the rangelands due to human activities such as pastoralism. The study took the

form of a case study of Ngoma sub-county in which the data collected was both

qualitative and quantitative. The study design also involved purposive sampling. The

data were collected using interviews, observation and questionnaire for primary data

and document analysis for secondary data. In all a sample of 20 respondents was

involved in this study. The study specifically set out to achieve the following

objectives: - To find out the effects of pastoralism on rangeland management and to

find out how pastoralism can be sustained in the rangelands.

The data were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Qualitatively analysis

involved literal description and narration of the emerging issues out of which

conclusions were drown. For quantitative analysis, the data captured by

questionnaires were coded and analyzed manually after which it were presented in

percentages and tables. This was followed by the description of the emerging issues

and drawing of conclusions. The study established that pastoralism impacts on

rangelands by causing soil erosion, loss of plant species, desertification, depletion of

water sources and reduction in the availability of food. The study also established

that pastoralism and rangelands can be sustained by construction of valley dams,

establishment of market centers, planting of drought resistant pastures and through

demonstration farms.

The study recommends for an intersectoral and participatoral planning given the fact

that issues concerning pastoralism and rangelands are multi-faced. The study

concludes that human activities such as pastoralism negatively impacts on the

rangelands. The low levels of education, lack of alternative opportunities, limited

voice in decision making and cultural prejudices inhibit the sustainability of the rangelands and pastoralism.