Research Article
Influence of Climate Change-driven Scarcity of Water on the Prevalence of Gender-based Violence (GBV) Among Women in Matapato South, Kajiado County, Kenya
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
28-35
Received:
2 April 2026
Accepted:
16 April 2026
Published:
28 April 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jher.20261202.11
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Abstract: Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a critical social challenge in climate-vulnerable pastoral communities, where environmental stressors intersect with gender inequalities. The purpose of the study was to examine the Influence of climate change-driven scarcity of water resources on the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) among women in Matapato South, Kajiado County, Kenya. This study, grounded in Resource Scarcity and Conflict Theory, examined how climate change outcomes influence GBV against women in Matapato South Ward, Kajiado County, Kenya. Resource Scarcity and Conflict Theory frames how environmental shocks compromise social and household stability. The study targeted women and key stakeholders, including community elders, local administrators, healthcare workers, law enforcement officers, and NGO representatives addressing climate change and GBV, with a total population of 194 women and 62 stakeholders. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample of 131 women and 44 stakeholders was selected. Cluster and purposive sampling ensured balanced representation. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings reveal strong theoretical and empirical links between climate stressors and GBV. 95.9% of respondents reported that drought-related water scarcity leads to household conflicts, reflecting how resource scarcity exacerbates gendered power tensions. The study concludes that climate-induced water, pasture, and food scarcity, along with migration, intensify GBV risks, including household disputes, emotional abuse, sexual violence, and exploitative relationships. These findings underscore the gendered security implications of climate change and the need for targeted interventions to reduce GBV, enhance community resilience, and protect women in pastoralist settings.
Abstract: Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a critical social challenge in climate-vulnerable pastoral communities, where environmental stressors intersect with gender inequalities. The purpose of the study was to examine the Influence of climate change-driven scarcity of water resources on the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) among women in Matap...
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Daniel Muasya Nzengya
