The Effects of Climate Variability on The Livelihood of Pastoral Communities in Qardho District, Somalia
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Date
2025
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Abstract
This study examined the effects of climate variability on the livelihood of pastoral communities in Qardho district, Somalia. The study used mixed methods. Questionnaires were administered to 192 participants using stratified random sampling. Nine key informant interviews were conducted using purposive sampling. The study analyzed the data using descriptive statistics and regression analysis via SPSS, version 20. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to determine whether a significant effect exists between the independent variables and the dependent variables. The findings revealed that 74% of respondents indicated higher livestock mortality rates due to drought. The Regression Analysis (R² = 0.388) suggested that approximately 38.8% of the variance in livelihoods can be explained by drought. In addition, 71% of respondents agreed that the groundwater levels have significantly decreased. The Regression Analysis (R² = 0.609) indicated that about 60.9% of the variance in livelihoods is attributable to water scarcity. Also, the study findings revealed that 72% of respondents agreed that e mobility and transhumance are essential strategies for their livelihoods. It also shows that the Regression Analysis R² value of 0.369 shows that approximately 36.9% of the variance in livelihoods can be explained by the coping mechanisms employed. In conclusion, the climate variability, particularly drought and water scarcity have a profound impact on the livelihoods of pastoral communities. Water scarcity was a critical issue that complicated tensions and exhibited resilience through various adaptive strategies. The study recommended the implementation of sustainable grazing practices, investing ininfrastructure for water conservation, and sharing of traditional knowledge and adaptive strategies among pastoralists.