DLCI is dedicated to the critical mission of enhancing the adaptability and resilience of livelihoods in Kenya’s drylands in the face of mounting climatic shocks and disasters. The region faces a unique set of challenges, particularly concerning food security, that demand a multifaceted approach.

One of DLCI’s primary focal points is advocating on behalf of the millions of people residing in these drylands, a significant proportion of whom are grappling with the formidable impacts of climate change. Specifically, DLCI’s advocacy efforts are laser-focused on advancing Sustainable Development Goal 13, which calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its far-reaching consequences. Within this context, DLCI also champions policies promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources, recognizing their potential to mitigate climate change and improve energy access in these vulnerable regions.

The primary objective of DLCI is to amplify the voices of dryland communities in critical areas such as food security, livelihoods, and resource governance. DLCI’s focus centers on advocating for the residents of 15 dryland counties who bear the disproportionate brunt of climate change impacts, despite their minimal role in causing the climate problem.

These local communities, situated in vulnerable areas within these counties, continually grapple with a trifecta of challenges: recurrent droughts, the scourge of livestock diseases, and persistent conflicts over scarce resources. DLCI recognizes the urgency of addressing these interconnected issues to enhance the resilience and well-being of these marginalized populations.

DLCI also convenes actors under the National Resilience Framework (WFP, UN-OCHA, NDMA etc). It will also advocate for anticipatory action to end drought emergencies. DLCI as a knowledge management organization has a repository for research on drought, pastoralism, and drylands livelihoods. 

It also actively participates in the NDMA-led ending drought emergencies (EDE) process by supporting relevant pillar groups. DLCI believes that a informed community will increase resilience to drought, reduce drylands vulnerabilities and improve investment

DLCI is not merely an advocate but a dynamic force working collaboratively to address the pressing challenges faced by dryland communities. Through amplifying community voices, forging partnerships, advocating for anticipatory action, and fostering knowledge exchange, DLCI contributes to building resilience and improving the livelihoods of those living in these climatically vulnerable regions.