Githae, Eunice2024-01-192024-01-192020-01Githae, E. (2020) "Cactus invasion: A Threat to Biodiversity and Food Security" Kenya Policy Briefs, 1(1), 9-10.https://africarxiv.ubuntunet.net/handle/1/39https://doi.org/10.60763/africarxiv/20This policy brief: The prickly pear cactus has a negative impact on food security, biodiversity and human well-being. The cactus invades mostly arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), which form more than 80% of Kenya's landmass. Livestock keeping is the main socio-economic activity in these areas. The plant is hardly appreciated due to the presence of spines and glochids (small spines on fruits) that cause injuries to people and livestock. In Narok County, the cactus invasion has increased rapidly over the last five years and has displaced people and pastures. The plant has been present in Laikipia County for more than ten years and has invaded grazing land, contributing to the death of livestock and wildlife.enKenyaBiodiversityFood securityArticle