Transhumance within private land conservation areas: perspectives from pastoralist landowners in rural Kenya

Abstract

Pastoralism in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions supports about 10 million indigenous people. While general studies on pastoralist livelihoods exist, limited research explores these dynamics within privately governed landscapes. This study critically examines how land tenure complexities within private land conservation areas (PLCAs) influence transhumance practices. Guided by the concept of information power, purposive sampling identified key informants for individual and group interviews and group discussions, which were thematically analysed to reveal recurrent ideas relevant to the research question. Visual documentation through photography complemented the narratives of pastoralist life within PLCAs. Findings revealed contrasting perceptions of grazing management across regions: in Narok, there is growing acceptance of grazing plans within privately protected areas (PPAs), while in Laikipia, strong resentment persists. The study recommends adaptive, inclusive grazing strategies in Laikipia that acknowledge contemporary land use realities and engage all stakeholders to achieve equitable trade-offs. In Narok, more participatory approaches are encouraged to ensure community-wide representation in grazing management. Overall, the study contributes to understanding how tailored grazing frameworks within unique landscapes can support intergenerational land use planning amid increasing land pressures.