Drought, extreme heat and economic pressures are intensifying food insecurity and nutrition challenges in Turkana County, with implications for community well-being and mental health. Drawing on findings from the Visibilize4ClimateAction project, this fact sheet examines household vulnerability, child malnutrition, women's nutrition and preparedness for climate shocks. It identifies priorities for early food assistance, improved access to water and nutritious local foods, and the integration of mental health into climate response and health services.
Climate shocks are placing increasing pressure on pastoral livelihoods, food security, nutrition and mental health in Samburu County. This fact sheet presents findings from the Visibilize4ClimateAction project, examining how drought and other climate-related challenges affect households and community well-being. It highlights priorities for strengthening pastoral and ecosystem resilience, improving dietary diversity, supporting mental health and integrating climate adaptation with agriculture, nutrition and health interventions.
How is climate change affecting food security, nutrition and mental health in Laikipia County? This fact sheet presents findings from the Visibilize4ClimateAction project, highlighting the impacts of climate shocks on household livelihoods, food access, child nutrition and mental well-being. It outlines practical priorities for strengthening resilience through improved water access, agroecological practices, food and nutrition security, mental health support and coordinated county action.
Climate change is placing growing pressure on livelihoods, food security and health in Kenya’s drylands. Drawing on research and policy analysis from the Visibilize4ClimateAction project in Laikipia, Samburu and Turkana counties, this policy brief examines the connections between climate shocks, agriculture, nutrition and mental health. With 76.6% of surveyed households severely food insecure, the findings highlight the need for adaptation approaches that address these interconnected challenges.
The brief identifies practical opportunities to translate Kenya’s existing climate, agriculture and health policies into coordinated action. It recommends joint planning and budgeting, financing that supports livelihood and health outcomes, and stronger collaboration between community health promoters, agricultural extension officers and local climate actors. Lessons from the three counties demonstrate how locally tailored approaches can strengthen resilience, improve nutrition and support mental wellbeing.
The Earth’s atmosphere naturally traps heat from the sun to keep our planet warm enough for life. However, human activities—primarily the burning of fossil fuels—have increased the concentration of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O).
When these gases accumulate, they trap more heat, leading to a rise in global temperatures.
The last decade was the hottest on record. Even a small temperature increase can drastically impact weather patterns and ecosystems.
Heatwaves, hurricanes, floods, and droughts are becoming more frequent and intense. These events not only cause damage to infrastructure but also threaten lives and livelihoods.
Glaciers and polar ice caps are melting at alarming rates, contributing to sea-level rise that threatens coastal communities worldwide.
Increased air pollution from burning fossil fuels leads to respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic conditions.
Extreme weather events and displacement can cause anxiety, depression, and trauma in affected populations.
Changes in rainfall patterns and temperatures affect crop yields, leading to food shortages and higher prices.
Mitigation focuses on reducing or preventing greenhouse gas emissions.
Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power can replace fossil fuels, reducing CO₂ emissions.
Upgrading buildings, appliances, and transportation systems can significantly lower energy consumption.
Adaptation involves adjusting to the impacts of climate change.
Developing drought-resistant crops and improving irrigation systems help protect food supplies.
Cities can design infrastructure that withstands floods, heatwaves, and other climate-related events.
Small actions—such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and using public transport—can collectively make a big impact.
Raising awareness and urging policymakers to act is crucial. Schools, NGOs, and media play a key role in spreading accurate climate information.
Every fraction of a degree matters. By working together—governments, businesses, communities, and individuals—we can slow down climate change and protect our planet for future generations. The time to act is now.
The Visibilize 4 Climate Action Project inception workshop was held on July 4th and 5th, 2024, in
Maralal, Samburu County. The workshop aimed to:
• Introduce the Visibilize 4 Climate Action Project.
• Discuss the relationship between climate change, food systems, and health.
• Understand the stakeholders working in this space and identify opportunities for engagement.
The workshop brought together 72 participants, including county government officials, national
government representatives, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community- based organizations
(CBOs), the private sector, media, and project partners.
