Effects of climate change on mangrove-dependent livelihoods in Lamu County, Kenya

Abstract

The effects of climate change on mangrove-dependent livelihoods were examined in Lamu County, Kenya. Climatic instrumental, household survey, key informant interview, and focus group discussion data were collected from August to December 2021. Data analysis indicated a significantly increasing trend in annual air temperature between 1985 and 2020, with minimum and maximum temperatures increasing by 0.034 oC and 0.0281 oC, respectively. Rainfall dur- ing the seasonal long rains declined, but not significantly. In contrast, the seasonal ‘short rains’ increased significantly. The mean sea level rose significantly, from 7066 mm in 1985 to 7150 mm in 2020. The perception data showed an increasing effect of climate change on mangrove- dependent livelihoods in the last 10 years. Critical livelihood aspects that were affected included the destruction of property, displacement, the prevalence of waterborne infections, reduced mangrove products, increased salinity in underground waters, and destruction of fish habitats.