Comparative analysis of vulnerability of pastoralists and agro-pastoralists to climate change: a case study in Yabello Woreda of Oromia region, Ethiopia.

Abstract

The article aims at measuring and comparing the relative vulnerability of pastoralists and agro-pastoralists in Yabello Woreda of Borana Zone in Oromia Region. The study used vulnerability indicator method to determine the level of vulnerability of households and social groups. The study showed that half of the sample households are highly vulnerable to impacts of climate change. Among these highly vulnerable households agro-pastoralists comprise the highest proportion (60.5 %) of the highly vulnerable households. .This implies that the pastoral livelihood system is more resilient to climatic shocks and variability compared to that of agro-pastoralism in the study area. Generally, it is pointed out that resort to agro-pastoralism, though forced by local circumstances, seems to be a risky alternative. The problem, therefore, demands further investigation and efforts to create better policy, institution and infrastructure in order to widen opportunities for alternative and supplemental livelihood sources and resources.