Laikipia pastoralists forced to cross into Nyandarua as pasture runs dry

Thousands of livestock from Laikipia County are venturing into neighboring Nyandarua as the prolonged dry spells leave pastoralist communities struggling to provide for their animals. Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru highlighted the situation during Mazingira Day celebrations at Lariak Forest on October 10, 2026, amid growing concerns over the unpredictable weather patterns.

The migration of livestock forces pastoralists to travel further from their traditional grazing areas as pasture and water supplies dwindle. Mariru stated that "climate change is putting growing pressure on pastoralist communities in Laikipia, with thousands of livestock moving into neighboring Nyandarua County in search of pasture and water."

For households that depend on cattle, goats, and sheep for income and sustenance, the arid conditions make it more difficult to secure enough pasture and water for their animals. Prolonged dry spells and unpredictable weather are exacerbating the challenges faced by pastoralists, whose livelihoods hinge on the availability of water, pasture, and healthy livestock.

Seasonal rainfall is vital to these communities as it replenishes water sources and allows grazing areas to regenerate. When rainfall fails or comes late, families may be forced to relocate their livestock to other regions to prevent them from going hungry or thirsty.

The movement of livestock from Laikipia into Nyandarua and other counties underscores the strain that dwindling natural resources place on pastoralist families. Longer journeys can also intensify pressure on the remaining grazing areas and water sources as livestock from different locations converge on regions where pasture is still available.

Scarcity of pasture can adversely affect household income if livestock lose weight, fall ill, or perish. During the tree-planting exercise at Lariak Forest as part of Mazingira Day activities, Brigadier Ahmed Saman, Commander of Operation Maliza Uhalifu, mentioned that KDF has adopted Lariak Forest since March 2026 and intends to collaborate with the Kenya Forest Service and nearby communities to safeguard it.

He added that KDF personnel from Ng'oisusu and Kinamba would aid in watering seedlings when rainfall is insufficient. However, for pastoralists, the immediate concern remains finding sufficient pasture and water to sustain their livestock as dry conditions compel herds to venture farther from home.