Lodwar, 5th February 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
Community Mobilizers (CoMs) have benefitted from a refresher training on the De-Risking, Inclusion, and Value Enhancement of Pastoral Economies (DRIVE) Project,a crucial initiative designed to protect pastoral livelihoods from the devastating effects of drought, enhance financial inclusion, and strengthen market connections.
The project, funded by the World Bank and implemented through a partnership between the State Department for Livestock and the County Government, spans across 21 arid and semi-arid (ASAL) counties in Kenya.
The training aimed to equip local mobilizers with the expertise needed to drive the program forward and ensure its benefits reached every corner of the community.
Speaking during a courtesy call by the Project team, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Livestock Development & Fisheries, James Wangiros, welcomed the initiative, as he assured the DRIVE project team and trainers of the County government’s commitment to working closely with all stakeholders.
“Strengthening the livestock sector is key to improving livelihoods, through collaboration, we can remove barriers and create a sustainable future for our pastoralists.” He emphasized.
CECM Wangiros also called for support in the operationalization of the Project County liaison office and timely payment of bonuses and pay-outs which he said will enhance the visibility of the project as well as empower pastoralists in the County.
County Director of Livestock Production, Bobby Ekadon also stressed on the need for proactive measures to manage drought shocks and support herders in selling livestock before crisis strikes.
“Encouraging private sector investments in the livestock value chain, would unlock the full potential of Turkana’s pastoral economy.” He added
Since 2023, 16,718 pastoralists in the county had been registered for livestock insurance under the DRIVE project, receiving a total of Ksh. 106,621,269 in bonuses and pay-outs.
This financial cushion has provided much-needed relief to families, enabling them to withstand drought-related losses and reinvest in their herds.
Also present at the training was Ernest Anzeze, the DRIVE project County Liaison Officer, who underscored the importance of equipping mobilizers with the necessary tools to bridge the gap between policy and grassroots implementation.
The DRIVE Project team were led by Judith Muricho from the State Department for Livestock Development, Linus Too (ZEP-RE), and George Kipsang, (Kenya Development Corporation).
