Lodwar- October 17, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
The County Government in collaboration with The International Trade Centre (ITC), and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), hosted the inaugural Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the project- Promoting Sustainable Socio-Economic Development and Market-Based Livelihood Opportunities for Refugees and Host Communities in Kenya.
This project was launched to promote sustainable socio-economic development and create market-based livelihood opportunities for both refugees and host communities in Kakuma Municipality and the Kalobeyei settlement in Turkana West.
The project aligns with the Shirika Plan and the Kalobeyei Integrated Socio-Economic Development Programme (KISEDP), aiming to empower communities by improving technical skills, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing the competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
In total the project targets 2,250 participants, including 1,200 women, and 550 MSMEs, with a special focus on women-owned businesses. By strengthening value chains in sectors such as beekeeping, artisanal crafts, and digital services, the project seeks to boost employability, increase market access, and support local businesses in becoming more resilient and competitive.
The KOICA Country Director, Dr Jang Hee Im stated while addressing the meeting, “At the core of this initiative is the goal of fostering meaningful integration between refugees and host communities. By providing training to them, we aim to build a skilled talent pool capable of jointly producing goods and services that meet market demands.”
The Director Resource Mobilization, Partnerships, and Donor Coordination, Raphael Logum recognized KOICA team for improving the livelihoods in Turkana.
“A key element of our success will be our shared commitment to formalize partnership through an MOU, solidify our cooperation, align objectives in ensuring effective project implementation and use of resources”.
The ITC Director, Division of Country Programme, Ashish Shah, added, “This intervention is rooted in a market-based approach. By focusing on enhancing market systems, we aim to foster an environment where businesses can thrive, local employment can increase, and socio-economic resilience is strengthened”.
This event brought together key stakeholders from the national and county governments, ITC, KOICA, and implementing partners to review progress and discuss strategic actions for the project.
