Lodwar – August 1st, 2025
Youth and women led enterprises engaged in agri-food value chains in Turkana have benefitted from a two-day workshop on finance and market access, convened under the Vijana in KilimoBizz initiative.
The workshop, organized by the World Food Programme (WFP) through Master Card Foundation and in collaboration with the County Government, has the theme “Connecting Youth to Real Opportunities for Growth and Transformation”.
In his keynote address, County Secretary Dr Richard Titus Ekai called for a shift in perception among young people towards agriculture, emphasizing its potential for profitability and sustainable employment.
“Agriculture is no longer a fall back option. With the right mind set and support, it is a viable and profitable venture. Turkana youth must take advantage of the many empowerment initiatives available and lead the transformation of our economy,” said Dr Ekai.
County Executive (CEC) for Trade, Gender and Tourism James Longo’le Wangiros stated “We are intentionally bringing together all players from public and private sector to create a supportive environment for youth entrepreneurs. This forum is not just about training, but unlocking real opportunities.”
The Chief Officer for Gender and Youth Affair, Joseph Epuu, highlighted the County Government’s commitment towards supporting youth and women.
“The County has allocated 70 million in this financial year to address youth and women matters. I challenge our young people and women to grab these opportunities and turn their ideas into enterprises,” he said.
Chief Officer for Agriculture and Irrigation, David Maraka, urged the youth to leverage innovation in agribusiness and stated “Agribusiness offers sustainable pathway to self-reliance. I encourage our youth to be bold, creative, and explore value addition across the food chain.”
Chief Officer for Trade Pauline Tang’arae stated that the County Biashara and Cooperatives Funds were available and called on the participants to apply to start or scale up their businesses.
The Head of WFP Lodwar Office, Sara Ayodi said “there is a global shift from aid to resilience. The youth must stop seeing themselves as dependents and start thinking like solution providers.”
Speaking on behalf of youth participants, Naomi Eyanae, the CEO of KIMMEL Model Farm, shared her success story.
“Through the KilimoBizz initiative, my hatchery now produces over 1,200 chicks every week. This support has transformed our outlook. I urge fellow youth to be proactive, opportunities exist if you’re willing to work for them.”
During the two-day forum, participants took part in practical sessions, mentorship engagements, and interactive panels that focused on unlocking finance, enhancing market linkages, and building entrepreneurial skills.
The program further showcased various financing models, digital tools, and incubation platforms tailored to help youth-led agribusinesses scale and thrive in a competitive market.
Other speakers included; Susan Aletia (UN Regional Coordinator), Walter Mutsotso (Head of Program, WFP), Raphael Logumo (Director for Partnerships and Resources Mobilization), Shemmy Ekuwam (Director for Cooperatives), Mollen Onderi (Deputy Director for Gender), Linus Ekidor (Deputy Director for Youth Affairs) and Peter Mwaniki (WFP).
The forum brought together representatives from National Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Turkana Chapter, Turkana College University, and Financial Institutions including Kenya Commercial Bank, Equity Bank, Cooperative Bank and MSEA World Bank.
