Innovation: How Garbatulla’s pastoralists sustain livestock amid drought

What comes to mind when you hear the name Garbatulla? Is it the childhood memories of the famous book, The Ghost of Garba Tula?

Naturally, that’s the first thought for many. Yet, Garbatulla is so much more than myths and imagined fears.

It’s a vibrant land, full of potential, life, and untold stories. Nestled deep within the sun-scorched plains of Isiolo County, this region is rich in culture, history, and quiet innovation.

Historically, communities relied on seasonal rivers, hand-dug wells, and natural water pans to quench their thirst; often walking long distances, sometimes days, across dry riverbeds with donkeys and camels.

As droughts became more frequent and water scarcity worsened, these communities began innovating out of necessity.

They evolved from relying solely on traditional water holes to adopting sustainable methods like underground water harvesting and rainwater collection.

One remarkable innovation is the use of durable underground sheeting; heavy-duty materials carefully laid beneath the earth’s surface to harvest and store rainwater.

These sheets, often brightly colored in yellow to attract animals, are part of a simple yet effective system.

Here's how it works: sand is spread to create a raised bed, then a gentle depression is dug, and the underground sheeting is laid and pressed firmly into place.

Edges are buried and reinforced with more sand to keep it stable. When it rains, water collects and rises beneath the sheet, making it accessible for watering livestock.

It’s important to note that this method is primarily designed for animals; the water may sometimes be dirty and unsuitable for human consumption.

Nonetheless, this innovation exemplifies the resilience and ingenuity of Garbatulla’s communities in adapting to their environment and ensuring their livestock’s survival amid challenging water scarcity issues.

This method has been employed by pastoralists since the time of their forefathers. According to residents, it has proven effective in keeping their animals well-hydrated.

Sometimes, they add mineral salt to the water to improve its taste and help strengthen the animals’ bones.

The people of Garbatulla are dedicated pastoralists, raising cattle, goats, sheep, and camels with care and resilience.

In a region frequently challenged by drought, they prioritize the well-being of their livestock; demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their animals and their way of life.