Lodwar, April 10, 2026
(Public Communication and Media Relations)
Agribusiness groups drawn from Loima and Turkana Central sub-counties have completed a three-day Training of Trainers (ToTs) workshop aimed at strengthening gender-responsive business practices.
The forum funded by BMZ,and GIZ as the Lead partner, was implemented by TUPADO to bring together key community-based agribusiness groups, including Kaipoo Women Group, Ayanae Angidero Development Initiative, Nazarene Tonyotu Group, and Ng’amor Nyang’ayek Group.
The training focused on the concept of “Gender Makes Business Sense (GmBS),” emphasizing gender as a foundational pillar for sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Participants were equipped with practical knowledge on integrating gender considerations into agribusiness operations to enhance productivity and equity.
Speaking during the opening session, Director for Trade and Enterprises Winnie Loposh urged participants to leverage available county financial support systems to expand their enterprises. She emphasized that access to capital remains critical in scaling agribusiness ventures.
“The County Biashara Fund and cooperative funds are available. Do not sit back apply, access capital, and scale up your businesses,” she stated.
GIZ Rural Development Advisor Francis Ekaru highlighted the importance of embedding gender perspectives in rural economic development. He noted that empowering both men and women in agribusiness leads to improved household incomes and stronger community resilience.
On his part, TUPADO Programs Director David Kang’ole reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to building the capacity of local groups. He stated that the training is designed to enable participants to cascade knowledge within their communities, ensuring long-term impact beyond the workshop.
Marian Amui, a beneficiary welcomed the initiative, citing its relevance to their day-to-day operations.
Philemon Long’ole, representing Kangagetei Agribusiness Group, said the training had broadened his understanding of inclusive decision-making and the role of gender balance in improving productivity.
“This training has opened our eyes to how shared roles and responsibilities can strengthen our group and increase our output,” he said.
Mariam Ebenyo of Nazarene Tonyotu Group noted that the sessions on financial management and market access were particularly beneficial. She added that women in agribusiness stand to gain significantly from adopting gender-transformative approaches.
“We have learned how to keep proper records and identify better market opportunities. This will help us grow and sustain our businesses,” she said.
Key topics covered during the workshop included gender in agriculture and power dynamics, women’s empowerment and gender-transformative change, mental models in pastoralist communities, record keeping, market linkages, and challenges affecting agribusiness development in the region.
The training marks a significant step toward fostering inclusive agribusiness practices in Turkana County, with stakeholders optimistic that the knowledge gained will translate into more equitable and profitable enterprises across the region.
The training facilitators were; Esther Karithi( principal Lecturer at Kenya school of Agriculture (SDA), Quinter Akolong ( TUPADO Project officer), Michael Wesonga ( Sub county Trade officer) and Agribusiness officers,( County department of Agriculture).
