Update from the Triple-L Expert Group Workshop in Kenya

The research initiative Land, Livestock and Livelihoods in Drylands (Triple L) recently had a workshop in Kitale, Kenya. Different actors presented work and research relevant to the expert group’s area of focus. The event spawned fruitful discussions on topics for future research and opportunities surrounding the Mt. Elgon Livelihood project.

The workshop had around 45 participants for the first half and around 25 for the second. The participants were welcomed by Ms. Elizabeth Mwiyeria, the Country (Kenya) Director of the Swedish NGO Vi Agroforestry, followed by presentations from the County Government of West Pokot by agricultural director Ms. Koskei from the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). The presentation focuses on ILRI’s work with animal health and was succeeded by a presentation by FAO’s Land program in Kenya on their work with land tenure and governance.

A variety of recently conducted studies were presented later during the workshop. The following topics were covered by the studies: enclosure effects on soil carbon and on greenhouse gas emissions, transformation of household nutrition, and a socio-economic analysis of indigenous knowledge, external interventions and resilience. Furthermore, the workshop announced two new MSc studies conducted by Vi Agroforestry staff and supported by the SIANI expert group. The studies are titled: Agricultural Transition and Effects on Food Security and Effects of Environmental Factors on Gender Roles. The majority of subsequent discussions concentrated on research project ideas and potential for funding; both for further MSc’s and longer research projects.

The second half of the event was centred around the opportunities for research additions and cooperation on the Mt Elgon Livelihood Project, focusing on small-scale farmers and the milk value chain, in which Vi Agroforestry is an implementing partner. It started off with a general introduction followed by a visit to the field. During the subsequent discussion a lot of research ideas and opportunities were forwarded. Participants reached the conclusion that there are definite needs and opportunities for research cooperation and a research initiative/platform similar to Triple L will be formed around the Livelihood Project.