Lodwar -May 19, 2026 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
The County Steering Group (CSG) has approved two development projects by Vétérinaires Sans Frontières (VSF) Germany and Humanity & Inclusion Kenya, during a meeting chaired by the Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) for Turkana Central, Joseph Kipkorir.
The approved interventions include the Pastoralism and Livestock Adaptation to Climate Change in Eastern Africa (PLACE) programme by VSF Germany, which aims to promote sustainable and climate-resilient pastoral systems across the Eastern and Horn of Africa region.
The six-month project will be implemented in Kibish, Lokichogio, Turkana North, Turkana West, Loima, and Lokiriama sub-counties with a focus on improving livelihoods for pastoral communities.
The second project dubbed ‘Unlocking Opportunity Programme’ by Humanity & Inclusion, targets 1,500 youth with disabilities in Turkana. The initiative places strong emphasis on inclusion targeting 80% women and 20% men.
Deputy Director for Resource Mobilization, Partnerships and Donor Coordination, Michael Aupe, explained the importance of coordinated engagement among development partners to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure equitable distribution of projects across sub-counties.
He noted that while many organisations are active in Turkana, there is need to ensure balanced distribution of resources, so that no population is left behind.
Speaking during the meeting, DCC for Turkana Central, Joseph Kipkorir, noted that the County Steering Group plays a critical role in coordinating development interventions and ensuring alignment with government priorities for effective service delivery.
Aupe also emphasized that the County Government guides development initiatives to ensure sustainability and measurable impact.
“Any project presented at CSG must be done by a County Government team unless otherwise towards ownership and full understanding of the project,” Aupe reiterated.
He further urged development partners to actively engage through Sector Working Groups (SWGs) to enhance coordination and efficiency in programme implementation.
Representatives from VSF Germany and Humanity & Inclusion presented their proposed interventions to the CSG, outlining implementation timelines, thematic areas, target locations and expected outcomes for communities in Turkana.
The County Drought Coordinator from the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), Lordman Lekalkuli, emphasised the importance of coordinated planning and timely information sharing in strengthening resilience and improving responses to recurring climate-related shocks affecting the county.
The meeting also provided a platform for the Department of Health and Sanitation, led by the Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health, Agnes Mana, to brief members on the global status of Ebola Virus Disease and the preventive measures required. She noted that Turkana remains a high-risk county due to its proximity to international borders.
Aupe also highlighted the need for an urgent impact assessment on the rising water levels in Longech’, recommending that the exercise be spearheaded by the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) in collaboration with other development partners.
Other representatives from United Nations Resident Coordinator Office, county and national government departments were also present.
