Why did colonial restrictions worsen pastoralists' crisis during drought?

Correct answer: They reduced the ability to quickly reach alternative pastures

The direct answer is A: restrictions reduced pastoralists’ ability to reach alternative pastures quickly during drought. Drought means that grass and water become scarce in one or more areas. Mobility was a major survival strategy for pastoralists. Step by step: drought dries local pasture; herders normally move animals to another region with water or grass; colonial permits, forest closures, taxes and blocked routes slow or prevent that movement; animals remain longer in poor conditions; hunger, disease, loss of livestock and debt may increase. A is correct because it links drought, mobility and colonial restrictions. B is wrong because restrictions did not end drought. C is wrong because they did not increase water everywhere. D is wrong because animals cannot remain healthy without adequate fodder. The answer says “reduced the ability,” not that every herd suffered identically. Memory cue: in drought, movement is relief; blocked movement deepens the crisis.