Journal of Agriculture
and Environmental Sciences

Fishers at Night, Seaweed Farmers by the Day: Determinants of Livelihood Diversification among Marine Fisher Communities of Kwale County, Kenya
Okinyi B. Nyawade, Pamela Were-Kogogo, Phanuel Owiti, Harriet Osimbo, Adero Daniel O.

Abstract
In this paper, we assess the determinants of livelihood diversification among marine fisher communities of Kwale County in Kenya; the typologies of diversification and potential viability; and uptake of alternative livelihood sources that can cushion the households against environmental, social and economic vulnerabilities. We model the determinants of diversification using multiple linear regression together with Simpson Index of Diversity, for the analysis. A low level of diversification is reported among the marine fisher community but with a willingness and readiness for diversification to supplemental and enhanced livelihoods. Six predictor variables (Gender of Household Head, Training on livelihood, HH dependency ratio, Social Assets Value Index, Financial Assets Value Index, Membership to social organization and Fishermen attitude and identity) were found to be significantly and strongly associated with the dependent variable (extent of livelihood diversification). Contrary to other research findings, age, education, land holding size and marital status were found not significantly associated with level of diversification despite consistently being significant for related studies in agrarian communities. In consideration of these findings, the study recommends prioritization of non-fishing livelihood sources such as seaweed farming, apiculture, mangrove planting, small business enterprises among others.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jaes.v10n1a6