Lodwar, June 11, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
The County Department of Livestock Development, in collaboration with Catholic Relief Services (CRS), hosted a forum to review the progress of the Kenya Resilient Arid Lands Partnership for Integrated Development (RAPID+) joint work plan in Turkana County. The event brought together the program steering committee, comprising representatives from various departments, to assess the achievements and challenges faced so far.
Chief Officer for Livestock Production Ezekiel Ekuwam Etelej emphasized the county government’s role in the design and implementation processes, led by the Steering Committee composed of representatives from national and county departments. He called for continued support and coordination in implementing the remaining half of the program, acknowledging the contributions of stakeholders like the Lodwar Water and Sanitation Company (LOWASCO) and the Water Resources Authority in enhancing the project’s success.
Chief Officer for Water Services Simon Etom reiterated the overarching goal of RAPID+ in ensuring sustainable and resilient livelihoods for communities in the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs). He highlighted the project’s focus on increasing access to sustainable and safe water for people and livestock, as well as restoring healthy rangeland management.
CRS Project Manager Alfred Ireri outlined the project’s details, including its timeline, implementing partners, and budget allocation. He led discussions for the team to develop a way forward for implementing pending activities before the end of the financial year 2024.
The forum provided a platform for stakeholders to reflect on the progress made so far and plan for the remaining half of the program. It underscored the importance of continued coordination and support to achieve the goals of RAPID+ in enhancing livelihoods in Turkana County.
The stakeholders meeting was attended by key officials, including Directors Aaron Nanok (Agriculture) and Paul Lotum (Water Services), and Deputy Directors Josephine Emase (Livestock Development) and Mollen Onderi (Gender). Representatives from CRS and RAPID+ included David Kimani, Senior Project Officer for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and Aipa Grace Beka, Project Officer for Rangelands and Livelihoods.
