Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation Strategies among Pastoral Communities in Yabello District, Borana Zone, Ethiopia

Climate change presents a critical challenge to the sustainability of pastoral livelihoods in the arid and semi-arid regions of Africa, particularly in Ethiopia’s Borana Zone. This study investigates the profound impacts of climate change on pastoral communities in the Yabello District and comprehensively evaluates the adaptation and coping strategies they employ. Employing a robust mixed-methods research approach, data were collected through a structured household survey (n=150), complemented by key informant interviews (n=15) and focus group discussions (n=3) to capture both quantitative and qualitative dimensions. The findings reveal that a vast majority of pastoralists perceive significant climatic shifts, with 82% reporting increased drought frequency, 76% citing severe declines in water availability, and 68% noting a substantial reduction in pasture biomass. Key climate change indicators identified include highly erratic rainfall patterns (reported by 89% of respondents) and steadily rising temperatures (72%). While traditional adaptation mechanisms such as seasonal mobility (practiced by 65%) and herd diversification (54%) remain prevalent, they are increasingly inadequate in the face of intensifying and compounding climatic stressors. The study further highlights foundational systemic vulnerabilities, including limited institutional support and inadequate infrastructure, which severely hinder effective adaptive responses. This research concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for targeted policy interventions that enhance climate information systems, promote climate-smart pastoral practices, and integrate these marginalized communities into broader climate resilience frameworks.