Dynamics of seasonal migration among pastoralists in Itang special district, Gambella region, South–West Ethiopia

Climate change, conflicts, a shortage of rangeland resources for livestock, and agricultural expansion affect the livelihoods of pastoralists. Consequently, the pastoralists utilize seasonal migration as an adaptation strategy in the Gambella region. The primary objective of this study was to assess the dynamics of the pastoralists’ seasonal migration. Multistage sampling techniques, including simple random, stratified, and purposive sampling, were employed. Focus group discussions and a questionnaire survey were used to collect data from 100 respondents. The data were analyzed using means, standard deviations, percentages, frequencies, chi-square, t-tests, and a binary logistic regression model. The results of the binary logistic regression model revealed that occupational status, perception of migration, credit access, distance to market, distance to livestock water, and livestock holding size were significant factors influencing the pastoralists’ seasonal migration in the area. Additionally, recurrent conflicts (52%), the absence of a road network (28%), scarcity of non-farm activities (46%), insufficient water resources (36%), and the prevalence of livestock predators (40%) were serious barriers faced during seasonal migration. Moreover, stimulating livestock products (66%), strengthening resilience (50%), enhancing social cohesion (43%), and ensuring sustainable rangelands (38%) represented promising prospects for seasonal migration. Therefore, seasonal migration is influenced by socio-economic drivers, hindered by environmental and conflict-related challenges, but still presents promising opportunities through improved access to markets, resilience initiatives, and sustainable rangeland use. Thus, seasonal migration sustainability can be enhanced by improving the rural road network, expanding non-farm livelihoods, and strengthening conflict resolution and rangeland management.