Assessment of Food Shortage Coping Mechanisms Employed by Agro-pastoral Households in Sosian Ward, Laikipia North Sub-County, Kenya

Food plays a significant role in sustaining livelihoods, health, and socio-economic stability, especially in agro-pastoral communities. This study aimed to examine the coping strategies adopted by agro-pastoral households in response to food shortage in Laikipia North Sub-County, Kenya. This study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing a descriptive survey design. The target population consisted of 19,781 agro-pastoralists, from whom a stratified random sample of 149 households and six key informants was drawn. Data were collected through questionnaires, focus group discussions, and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Findings showed that the most commonly used consumption-based coping strategies were relying on less preferred or cheaper foods (68.5%), reducing meal portion sizes (63.1%), and skipping meals (56.4%). Livelihood-based strategies included selling livestock (63.1%), seasonal migration for grazing (59.7%), and engaging in casual labor (57.7%). Social support-based strategies involved borrowing food or money (49.7%) and seeking food aid (34.2%). Household resources, financial limitations, and community support systems influenced these strategies. The results underscored the reactive and context-specific nature of coping mechanisms in agro-pastoral settings. The study concluded that households relied on a mix of strategies to manage food shortages, with some approaches potentially undermining long-term resilience. It recommended promoting sustainable consumption practices, improving household income through livelihood diversification, and strengthening community support systems. Theoretically, the findings contribute to understanding how socio-economic dynamics influence coping behavior. Practically, the study informs policy on targeted interventions to support vulnerable agro-pastoral communities facing recurrent food shortages.