Kenya’s Turkana County restocks livestock to aid drought-hit families

KENYA – The Turkana County Government in Kenya has launched a livestock restocking programme benefiting more than 170 households in Katilu and Lokapel, a move aimed at helping pastoralist communities recover from devastating droughts and insecurity. 

The initiative is distributing goats and sheep to families who lost their herds to harsh climatic conditions, livestock diseases, and cattle raids.

A total of 856 animals are being shared among affected households, with each family receiving five goats or sheep. 

The County Directorate of Livestock Development spearheads the programme and aims to restore livelihoods and food security in the region’s most vulnerable areas.

According to Wangiros Longole, County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Livestock Development, and Fisheries, this phase is focusing on communities in Katilu and Lokapel, which were especially hard-hit by repeated crises.

The initiative has sparked hope among residents. One father from Lokapel, who had lost all his livestock the previous year, saw the restocking as a fresh start. 

Similarly, a mother of three expressed her gratitude for the goats she received, sharing how they would help her provide for her children once again after losing her entire herd.

To ensure accountability and fairness, local stakeholders were involved in the selection of beneficiaries, a move that has boosted community trust in the programme. 

Bobby Ewoi, Director of Livestock Production, explained that the process is now more transparent because the government involved the community in every step. 

He added that they expect to see a significant decrease in reliance on food aid, as this initiative aims to rebuild livestock populations and reactivate local markets.

The livestock restocking is part of a broader county-wide resilience strategy funded through the Ward Development Fund. 

Approximately Kshs 50 million (around US$385,000) has been allocated to the programme to support drought recovery and economic revitalisation.

The county also plans to distribute certified crop seeds to strengthen recovery further and encourage food production. 

Beyond aiding households, the programme is also creating opportunities for local businesses and youth groups.

The goats and sheep were sourced from area suppliers, including the Forty-One Champions Youth Group, which received its first major county tender through this initiative.

William Etubon, Member of County Assembly and chair of the Agriculture Committee, praised the collaborative effort behind the initiative. 

“This programme is a joint commitment between my office, the Governor, and the entire county administration. It represents our shared mission to uplift Turkana’s most vulnerable communities.”

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