Chicken Farming in ASAL Regions: A Climate-Smart Solution for Kenya’s Drylands

ASAL (Arid and Semi-Arid Lands) regions in Kenya are witnessing a rise in chicken farming as a viable and sustainable livelihood strategy in the wake of climate change and shifting land use patterns.

Traditionally dependent on pastoralism, ASAL communities are facing increasing challenges. Prolonged droughts, shrinking grazing fields, and rapid land subdivision have rendered large livestock farming, such as cattle keeping, economically unsustainable for many households.

“Restocking after drought is a major hurdle for most pastoralists,” says Gideon Toimasi, a community development officer and a farmer in Kajiado County. “It takes time, money, and pasture, resources that are increasingly scarce.”

Chicken farming, however, presents a practical and affordable alternative. Chickens require less land, reproduce quickly, and offer a steady source of income and nutrition. For households hit hard by climate shocks, this shift could be a game-changer.

Furthermore, chicken farming is promoting greater financial inclusion. In the past, livestock such as cattle, sheep and goats were predominantly owned by men, often linked to land ownership. Today, with the affordability and accessibility of poultry, women and youth can now actively participate in livestock-based income generation.

“Anyone can own a chicken,” says Gideon. “I started with just five hens, and now I’m selling eggs every week to the local market. It has helped me pay school fees and buy food during drought seasons.”

The evolution of ASAL communities, spurred by better access to education and urban expansion, means traditional pastoral systems must adapt. With rising demand for food in fast-growing towns and peri-urban areas, small-scale chicken farming offers a way to meet local needs while creating employment and boosting resilience.

Experts argue that poultry farming should be integrated into broader climate adaptation plans. It aligns with Kenya’s goals of food security, women empowerment, and rural development.

As the realities of climate change intensify, chicken farming is no longer just a backup plan, it’s a front-line solution for ASAL communities striving to protect their livelihoods and future.

By Jennifer Simaloi | Graduate Farmer Correspondent