Access to Climate Information and its Role in Building Climate-Resilient Communities in Kitui County, Kenya

Abstract

The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events have heightened vulnerability of rural communities, particularly within arid and semi-arid regions. Access to timely, credible, and locally relevant climate information is therefore essential for enabling communities to adopt adaptive practices that strengthen resilience. This study investigated the role of climate information access in supporting climateresilient livelihoods among households in Kitui County, Kenya. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative data obtained from 350 household surveys with qualitative insights from 15 key informant interviews and three focus group discussions. Results show that approximately 71% of households’ access climate information, primarily through radio broadcasts, agricultural extension services, and community barazas. However, barriers such as limited localization of climate information, technical complexity of forecasts, and inadequate communication infrastructure continue to constrain effective utilization. Households with access to climate information were significantly more likely to adopt adaptive practices including drought-resistant crop cultivation, adjusted planting seasons, and water harvesting techniques. The study highlights the importance of strengthening climate information services through localized communication strategies, simplified messaging, and improved dissemination infrastructure to enhance community resilience in semi-arid regions.