The influence of financial literacy, equity, and climate resilience on livelihoods in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) and blue economy regions

Financial literacy, social inclusion and equity, and climate resilience play a vital role in promoting sustainable livelihoods among youth, women, and marginalized groups in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) and blue economy regions. This study assesses how livelihood sustainability is influenced by the collective roles of inclusive financial practices, equitable access to resources, and climate-adaptive strategies by using a mixed methods approach that combines quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The results show that effective decision-making is inhibited by limited financial literacy, while inclusive participation is restricted by persistent social inequities. Localized socioeconomic and environmental conditions are reflected by the variations in climate resilience. The study stresses that financial education, social equity, and climate adaptation to build resilient and sustainable livelihoods should be aligned through integrated policy frameworks in order to advance inclusive and long-term development across Kenya’s ASALs and blue economic regions.