Lodwar, 16 November 2023 (Governor’s Press Service)
Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has launched a new partnership programme between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Turkana Chapter. The partnership will focus on supporting business development and growth in Turkana County.
The partnership will provide training and capacity building to businesses, facilitating access to finance, promoting entrepreneurship, supporting the development of cooperatives and enhancing integration with neighbouring countries. It will provide access to opportunities for refugees as well as boost integration with the host community on business.
“Partnerships are important in supporting and equipping our business community and providing grants to our entrepreneurs,” Governor Lomorukai said during the launch held at Ceamo Hotel. “We are committed to creating a conducive environment for our business community to freely conduct their activities.”
The Governor appreciated the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s efforts in training and building the capacity of local traders. He called on the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) to find a way to certify businesspeople, enabling them to access more opportunities.
KNCCI-Turkana Chairperson Justus Ewoi, shared insights into the chamber’s growth, attributing it to the support from partners who have focused on building capacity and providing opportunities for business growth.
“We are excited to be partnering with the ILO to expand our reach and provide more opportunities for our business community. This partnership will help us to create more jobs, promote economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of our people,” he said.
ILO has been working in Turkana County since 2016, initially providing support to businesses in Turkana West and Turkana Central. Under the new partnership, ILO will expand its work to all seven sub-counties in the county.
“ILO is committed to fostering business development and growth in Turkana County,” said Lilyanne Ndinda, National Project Coordinator of ILO PROSPECTS. “We are also committed to collaborating closely with KNCCI to facilitate the expansion of KNCCI on a global scale.”
Senior County Government officials present included County Executive for Education Leah Audan; Chief Officers Robert Loyelei (Trade), Paul Lodung’a (Office Of the Governor) and John Korikel (Sports and Vocational Training); Chief of Staff Peter Yoromoe and Director Vocational Training Stephen Eregae.
Also present was the regional Specialist from ILO Asfaw Kidanu, UNHCR Assistant Livelihood and Economic Inclusion Officer Edith Ingutia, and Kakuma members of the business community.
