Scientists help farmers fight climate change

Researchers have begun working with farmers and pastoralists in different parts of Kenya to reduce the impact of climate change.

This follows a warning by scientists that climate change was likely to increase the frequency and intensity of drought and famine.

“Such experiences and research could help vulnerable communities elsewhere in Africa,” said Mr Abebe Tadege of the Kenyan IGAD Climate Prediction and Application Centre. The researchers are working under the AfricaAdapt programme.
“Our interactive website, www.africa-adapt.net, our events, specialised radio broadcasts and support for innovation will help us share knowledge on how to reduce climate change impact in Kenya with researchers and vulnerable communities across the continent,” he said.

Wild animals

Meanwhile, cases of wild animals attacking people are on the increase in Nyandarua North District because of human encroachment on their habitat, Kenya Wildlife Service said on Friday.

The warder in charge, Mr Dominic Kilonzo said five cases had been reported to the Nyahururu offices this year compared to two last year.

Of the five cases, three involved hippos and Mr Kilonzo said people were encroaching on the animals’ main habitat, Lake Olobollosat.

In addition to cultivating close to the lake, “one person has even put a fence right up to the water, denying the animals pastures”.

Mr Kilonzo said the other two attacks were by elephants and said such conflicts were likely to increase as people were farming on the corridors used by the animals to access water.