Effective implementation of climate variability adaptation programs: Lessons from Katulu social innovation in Kenya

Many initiatives have been undertaken by the Kenyan Government and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to help residents of Semi-arid lands (ASALs) cope with the effects of climate variability with mixed results. A study to map climate variability adaptation programs in the larger Kitui County - Kenya was done in 2015. The study addressed itself to programs’ efficaciousness at improving the climate resilience of affected households. Data sources included household questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. This paper draws on an analysis of one such program called Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation Program (PRRO) locally known as Katulu. A locally driven social innovation, Katulu brings together various actors including the local community, the Government, the Catholic Church and a host of donors in Kitui County. Results indicate that Katulu has been instrumental in providing support to its members cushioning them against effects of drought. Under Katulu, members have been sharing various technologies aimed at conserving moisture and fertility in their farms which in turn is expected to boost output. The study recommends that stakeholders involved in climate adaptation should integrate people driven initiatives such as Katulu in their long term plans to ensure sustainability of such programs in the ASALs. Key words: Climate resilience, climate programs, development, Katulu, Kenya, social innovation, governance