March 26, 2024 (Public Communication and Media Relations)

The Deputy Governor Dr John Erus was today paid a courtesy visit by the Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Germany (VSF) team led by the Chief Executive Officer, Christian Griebenow.

The purpose of this visit is to evaluate VSF Germany’s contributions towards addressing the needs of the Turkana community, aspirations, and potential for further cooperation investment in humanitarian and development aid in the County.

Dr John Erus appreciates the support of VSF for its milestone efforts to nurture and improve the livelihood sustainability of the people of Turkana.

“Our aspirations framework as the County Government of Turkana requires integration from development partners to stabilize food security and sustainability in Turkana County,” he said.

The Chief Executive Officer, Christian Griebenow stressed that incorporating pastoralists’ traditional way of animal keeping and agricultural ways is key to accommodating the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL).

VSF has been working on development projects in Turkana that are focused on climate change through enhancing the health and productivity of livestock.

VSF Germany is currently implementing an Integrated Life-Saving Disaster Risk Reduction (ILDRR) project. This intervention contributes to food, nutrition and livelihood security, health, and protection among other crises affecting vulnerable agro-pastoral communities.

The CECM for Agriculture, Livestock Development, and Fisheries, Dr Antony Apalia labeled VSF as a “Traditional partner” because of its longstanding history in Turkana.

“At least 1,165 farmers have benefited through farming tools and capacity building. In Kerio Delta, 300 fisher boats were issued to fisher folks plus additional training. Approximately 183,000 livestock have received vaccination and deworming medical services”.

Other senior county government officials present in the meeting included Chief of Staff- Peter Loyapan, Deputy County Secretaries- Dr Albert Gamoe and Joseph Nyang’a, Chief Officer for Fisheries and Aquaculture- Evans Lomodei, Chief Officer for Agriculture- Janerose Tioko, and Directors from Resource Mobilization and Partnerships, Veterinary Services, and administration services.