Information Needs of the Nomadic Communities in Improving their Livelihood in Garissa County

Abstract

Purpose: Increasing access to information and knowledge for nomadic communities supports sustainable development and improves the community’s livelihood while establishing active, responsible, and inclusive institutions at all levels. However, nomadic communities in arid and semi-arid lands have restricted access to information due to their geographical, economic, and social marginalization. The study aimed to determine the information needs of the nomadic communities in improving their livelihood in Garissa County. Methodology: The study is anchored by the Wilson model with the use of a descriptive survey research design. The target population was 377, including library users, heads of public libraries, and sub-county officers. The library users were sampled using multistage cluster sampling. The six educational officers and the three heads of libraries were chosen by purposeful sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and interview schedules, which were validated and tested for reliability through per-testing in Tana River County. SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis and descriptive statistics was used to interpret the findings. Results: The findings revealed that nomadic communities in Garissa County have distinct and pressing information needs to enhance their livelihoods. Sustainable farming practices, effective livestock management, and educational opportunities tailored to the nomadic lifestyle were identified as key areas of interest. Public libraries, by providing tailored resources and programs, have addressed these needs to some extent. Conclusion: There is a need for regular information needs assessments to identify and address the specific information requirements of nomadic communities. Furthermore, public libraries should collaborate with community leaders to ensure that their collections and services meet the practical and cultural needs of the nomadic community, fostering greater engagement and livelihood improvement.