The historical trajectory of Livestock economy and its transformation among the Akamba of Machakos, Kenya,1895-1963

Abstract

This study set out to examine the historical trajectory of livestock economy and its transformation among the Akamba of Machakos between 1895 and 1963. The main thrust of the study was the need to examine and detail the role of the colonial capitalist agency in the marginalization and neglect of livestock industry among the Akamba of Machakos. The objectives that guided this research included; the examination of the nature and significance of livestock economy among the Akamba of Machakos during the pre-colonial era; assessing the impact of colonial polices on livestock economy in Machakos and finally, establishing the response of the Akamba of Machakos to various colonial policies on livestock production. To achieve this, the study employed the theories of the articulation of modes of production and the agency theory. The study utilized the historical research design in order to link phases of the area of the study with the study title. Data collection was done through primary and secondary sources. Primary sources involved the use of vast archival materials which provided the official state position on livestock production; oral interviews with selected informants helped to reveal the Akamba perception on the livestock economy in the area during the period under study. The target population consisted of people who were involved in livestock management or trade during the colonial period. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to select a sample of 24 informants who were well versed with Akamba livestock economy. The research instrument that was employed to collect oral data was unstructured interview schedule. In addition, secondary sources were utilized. They included books, journal articles, dissertations and unpublished documents. They helped in identifying the gap, hence laying the basis for the significance of the proposed study. Data was analyzed using qualitative method. It was compiled into themes and reported in descriptive texts and direct quotations. The study established that livestock industry was a predominant economic activity among the Akamba as livestock was both a measure and store of value. It equally observed that, the advent of colonialism which bred capitalism contributed to the relative decline of livestock industry among the Akamba of Machakos. Furthermore, the study also found out that while the colonial state articulated the Akamba livestock economy to colonial capitalism, the Akamba responded as receptive agents ready to accommodate, absorb and adapt new practices into their pre-colonial livestock economy. The Akamba therefore, retained what they deemed beneficial to their livestock industry and restructured it with the new and progressive ideas from the colonial state. The study concluded that the integration of the Akamba pre-capitalist mode of production into colonial capitalism progressively undermined livestock industry which had been a predominant economic activity among the Akamba of Machakos on the eve of colonial rule, hence placing it on a negative trajectory. The study thus recommended that the national government and the County Government of Machakos should devise appropriate and practical policies which can improve livestock sector in Machakos.