Abstract:
This paper explores the spatial determinants
of poverty among livestock
keepers by taking an
econometric approach that combine poverty indices
for livestock keeping areas in Kenya as the
dependent variable and relating this
to a variety of spatial variab
les likely to contribute to poverty
at a local scale. We use both gl
obal and local regression models.
In carrying out this analysis,
elimination of spatial autocorr
elation was done by use of the
Moran’s
I and
Lagrange
multiplier.
The results show different spatial
variables to influence poverty at
the different scales and to be
geographically related at the local scale. Soil
quality, agro-climatic conditions, slope, land use
and demographic variables are important factors
in determining poverty. These variables offer a
challenge to policymakers in deciding on the meas
ures to take to enable
the reduction of poverty
in the rangelands of Kenya. With the establishm
ent of constituency development funds, tackling
the problem at the local
scale could be the most feasible opt
ion for the national government when
such information is made available.
