Livestock Restocking Interventions Impact on Food Security among Households in Loima Sub-County, Turkana County, Kenya

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of livestock restocking interventions on food security among households in Loima Sub-County, Turkana County, Kenya. “The study employed a mixed-methods approach targeting 196 pastoral households that had received livestock restocking interventions in the form of cattle, goats, and sheep, which were strongly perceived as vital for replenishing productive resources, promoting household self-sufficiency, improving food security, and reducing prolonged reliance on food assistance. Data collection utilized questionnaires and interview schedules, with descriptive and inferential statistics used for quantitative analysis and thematic triangulation for qualitative data. Results indicate a strong positive correlation between livestock restocking interventions and food security outcomes (r = 0.587, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that livestock restocking intervention significantly predicted food security (β = 0.211, p = 0.001), with a one-unit increase in livestock restocking associated with a 0.128 unit increase in food security. Research findings showed that livestock restocking helped households rebuild productive assets and reduce dependency on food aid through increased milk supply and income generation. The study concluded that livestock restocking interventions significantly enhance food security in Loima Sub County through asset rebuilding, productivity enhancement, market integration, and risk mitigation pathways. The research recommended continued investment in livestock restocking programs, with packages aligned to household needs and environmental conditions.