Impact of resettlement programs on rebuilding of livelihoods in Amani and Canaan resettlement schemes in Trans Nzoia county, Kenya

Abstract

People who are forcefully displaced from their habitual homes suffer loss of livelihood assets such as land and housing and are exposed to many risks such as joblessness, landlessness, homelessness and food insecurity among others. This study sought to establish the impact of resettlement programs on the rebuilding of livelihoods among the resettled IDPs in Amani and Canaan resettlement schemes. The specific objectives of the study were to: establish the livelihood activities being undertaken by the resettled IDPs; determine the level of access to essential services; assess the impact of resettlement on the rebuilding of livelihoods and examine the challenges facing the reconstruction strategies of the resettled IDPs. Cernea's Impoverishment Risks and Reconstruction (IRR) Model was relevant in conceptualizing the study problem. A cross-section survey research design was used. From a target population of 294 households, 232 household heads were selected using simple random sampling while the key informants were sampled purposively. Structured questionnaires, interview schedules, observations and photography were used to collect data. The statistical data was analyzed in form of mean and standard deviation and presented in form of tables, percentages and graphs. It was established that there was an increase in the number of IDPs who engaged in farming from 39 (16.8 %) before resettlement to 221 (95.3%) after resettlement. The resettlers also undertook off-farm livelihood activities whose proceeds were used to supplement household needs. There was increased access to agricultural extension, medical and administrative services as well as political leadership after resettlement. The resettlement programs increased ownership of land, houses and food. The resettled persons gained greater access to sources of safe drinking water. Pit latrines were the main sanitation facilities with the number of households sharing a facility reducing greatly after resettlement. The resettled persons had access to public medical facilities after resettlement. The main sources of fuel for cooking and lighting after resettlement were firewood and paraffin respectively. The number of people experiencing food shortages, poor housing, inadequate medical services, inadequate education facilities, and farming problems decreased after resettlement. It was concluded that resettlement led to rebuilding of livelihoods by improving ownership of land and housing, and access to water, medical and education services. Policy makers should integrate other livelihood activities in the resettlement programs. Scholars should further study the various programs for the rebuilding of livelihoods in other resettlement schemes in Kenya.