In the semi arid parts of Sub-Saharan Africa the traditional pastoral mode of living is still the mainstay of life although some changes have taken place during the last years. One of the major problems in the area is the degradation of household resources due to soil erosion aggravated by a growing population.

To prevent soil erosion tree planting is promoted by the government and local NGOs. Additionally, trees are involved in many activities contributing towards the income of the agrosilvo-pastoralists but little is known about the employment of trees and the degree of their utilization. Further information on the utilization of trees and their economic value will help to direct further research and development.

This study aims at increasing the understanding of the ways trees are utilized and valued by pastoralists in Sub-Saharan Africa and assesses the contribution of trees towards the household income.

The study was carried out at two sites of West Pokot, Kenya. General data on the location, on trees and their use was collected with participatory methods during group meetings. Additionally, ten in depth case studies for each site were accomplished by open interviews and discussions with household members, farm mapping, farm walks and participatory observations during the farm visits.

As expected, results show that households combine several enterprises to cover the subsistence needs. E. g. farmers keep livestock which depends entirely on the natural vegetation. Agricultural crops as maize, beans, millet and sorghum are grown on a small scale and are used mainly for home consumption.

Trees and shrubs are used in many ways by the households. Livestock like goats feed all year round on trees and shrubs, whereas cattle and sheep rely on trees during the dry season when the grass cover vanishes. At least for a quarter of a year, pastoralists have to rely on trees and shrubs as the only fodder source for their livestock. In addition, they gain cash income by charcoal production and sale of indigenous fruits.

All in all, trees and shrubs are an important resource for pastoralists. This is an important incentive that can be used to improve promotion for soil conservation.