By Betty Luke
At least 30,000 pastoralists and agro-pastoralists in Isiolo are set to benefit from a European Union four-year project that seeks to build resilience of vulnerable communities for sustainable livelihoods.
The Sh450 million building Drought Resilience through Sustainable Livelihood (DRIC) project will benefit residents from Garbatulla, Cherab, Sericho, Oldonyiro, Kinna, Ngaremara and Chari wards.
Deputy Head of EU to Kenya Katrin Hagemann said the EU was working on three areas of human development, peace and development and governance in its focus on building sustainable resilience through various programs.
“EU is committed to collaborating and creating stronger engagement with Kenya,” she said during the launch of the program in Isiolo town attended by Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa and Isiolo Governor Mohamed Kuti among other dignitaries.
Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa said the government was committed to ensuring sustainable food security in the arid and semi-arid regions that continue to suffer recurrent drought, floods and current locust invasion and Coronavirus pandemic.
The CS said the project will improve the nutrition status of children below five years and increase livestock and crop production for at least 5000 households in Isiolo.
“This project will enhance food and nutrition security and address malnutrition among children below five years. It will also increase access to markets,” said Mr Wamalwa.
A business incubator for youth and women will be established in Isiolo to help build self-reliance according to Ms Hagemann.
Governor Kuti said the project’s objectives were in line with the County’s Integrated Development Plan and will contribute to the county’s disaster preparedness and ensure food security.
Dr Kuti said his administration will continue working with various partners in ensuring improved livelihoods for the residents.
“The project will transform our people’s lives and help make our county food secure,” he said.
The project will be implemented by Veterinaires Sans Frontieres and the National Drought Management Authority in partnership with the Isiolo County Government of Isiolo and various NGOs including We World, Somirenec, E4Impact Foundation and CCM.
