Risk Perception and Coping Strategies among the Karrayu Pastoralists of Upper Awash Valley, Central Ethiopia. (1st December 2008) - Getachew, Girum
Abstract : This research investigated the risk perceptions and coping mechanisms of Karrayu pastoralists of central Ethiopia. The concept of livelihood framework underpins the argument of the paper. First-hand data was generated by a survey of 100 households and use of qualitative participatory methods: time line, wealth ranking and seasonal calendars. The findings reveal that the Karrayu people who operate in seemingly similar contexts are not exposed to similar constraints and opportunities. The wealth status of a household is highly related to the differences in risk perceptions and coping strategies. Differences were documented among men and women, youth and adults, local people and government actors. The relatively well off and the destitute have different risk perceptions and responses. Differences in risk perception and diverse coping strategies among the Karrayu pastoralists were also highly gendered.