LAND RIGHTS AND LIVELIHOOD IMPROVEMENT FOR PASTORALISTS IN HANDENI DISTRICT
LAND RIGHTS AND LIVELIHOOD IMPROVEMENT FOR PASTORALISTS IN HANDENI DISTRICT
JANUARY-DECEMBER 2010
ENVIROCARE implemented the project in Handeni District to strengthen pastoralists’ access to land and natural resources while improving their livelihoods and promoting sustainable pastoralism. The project focused on pastoralist communities in six villages and addressed challenges related to land access, grazing areas, water resources, environmental conservation and participation in local decision-making.
What We Did
The project introduced the initiative to Handeni District authorities and conducted a baseline assessment on pastoralists’ access to land. ENVIROCARE provided awareness materials and conducted training on the Land Policy, Village Land Act of 1999 and conflict management. The project also advocated for adequate representation of pastoralists in village land councils and supported the formation of a pastoralists’ network.
Pastoralists were further supported to understand livestock and rangeland policies, advocate for mapping and remapping of livestock routes, and engage with local authorities on access to water and grazing land. Environmental conservation and good governance were integrated throughout the project activities.
Project Impact
The project contributed to greater awareness among pastoralist communities of their land rights, relevant policies, environmental conservation and good governance. It also strengthened pastoralists’ collective voice through the establishment of a district pastoralists’ network and promoted their participation in village land governance and planning. The project aimed for at least 20% of pastoralist communities in the project areas to become aware of environmental conservation, good governance and their rights to water and grazing land.