Pasture Development to Rescue Pastoralists

Pasture Development to Rescue Pastoralists

Pastoralists in Morulem area of Turkana County are set to have hope of not losing their livestock during dry seasons on account of an upcoming pasture development and restocking programme. The initiative will also see the pastoralists increase their incomes and become more self-reliant through Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs).

The ambitious project is the result of a partnership between the NCCK and the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), who have jointly implemented the Turkana Resilience Project over the last two years.

Speaking during a courtesy call on the NCCK where the initiative was conceptualized, Paul D. Mosley, the MCCK Kenya/Tanzania Representative, emphasized that savings groups are central to livelihood diversification, financial inclusion and community building in this drought affected area.

On his part, the NCCK General Secretary Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui noted that Turkana County residents face numerous challenges hence the need to strengthen peacebuilding among the pastoralists and farmers, and establishing strong and sustainable value chains and linkages. These approaches, he expounded, are vital in creating dignified livelihoods for the community.

With support from the MCC, the NCCK has empowered farmers and pastrolists in Morulen area to enhance their agricultural productivity and profits while improving their food security. Pastoralists have been supported to restock so as to improve milk production.

This transformative work has seen NCCK joining the Turkana County Steering Group, uniting key agricultural actors, collaborating to increase food security in Turkana.