Research
Research grounded in dryland realities
CETRAD’s research activities are designed to create the knowledge base required to enhance sustainable development in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). Our approach is transdisciplinary, bridging the gap between scientific inquiry and practical development needs.
By maintaining long-term monitoring networks and socio-economic records, we provide unique insights into the changing dynamics of water, land, and people in Africa’s drylands.
Four pillars of integrated inquiry
Water Resources Management
Research into hydrological dynamics, water security, IWRM, and the impact of climate variability on ASAL water resources. Includes long-term monitoring of the Ewaso Ng’iro basin.
Land Use & Ecosystems
Investigating land cover changes, land tenure dynamics, rangeland management, and the ecosystem services that sustain dryland populations.
Food Systems & Livelihoods
Towards food sustainability: research into ASAL agricultural productivity, pastoral economy, market access, and nutritional security in changing climates.
Governance & Institutions
Research on natural resource governance, conflict management, institutional frameworks, and policy impact in ASAL development.
Current active research
Down-scaling Climate Services
Providing actionable climate information to farmers and pastoralists in the Ewaso Ng’iro basin to enhance climate resilience and seasonal planning.
Towards Food Sustainability
A long-term project investigating how to achieve sustainable food systems in Kenya’s drylands through better resource governance and market access.
Upper Ewaso Ng’iro Basin Monitoring
Maintaining one of East Africa’s most comprehensive river and rainfall monitoring networks to track water security and climate variability.
Land Governance & Livelihoods
Researching how land tenure changes affect pastoral livelihoods and environmental outcomes in Laikipia and surrounding counties.
Legacy of impactful research
Towards food sustainability in Kenya
Our flagship research programme investigating the complex links between land governance, food security, and climate resilience. The project aims to provide evidence-based solutions for Kenya’s dryland food systems.
Key Research Questions
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How does land tenure affect smallholder productivity? -
What are the drivers of food insecurity in dryland counties? -
How can markets be better integrated for pastoralists? -
What role does irrigation play in dryland food security?