Extended drought resilience programme targets to protect 255,000 in Turkana, Marsabit
According to a ministry statement, the interventions aim to rehabilitate 5,000 acres of degraded rangeland, create 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, and directly benefit at least 255,000 people.
In a bold move to strengthen Kenya's fight against drought, the State Department for Irrigation has announced plans to expand and extend the Drought Resilience Programme in northern Kenya, targeting the hardest-hit counties of Turkana and Marsabit.
During a high-level meeting convened today by the Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimotho, the department proposed a two-year extension of the programme, moving its end date from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2027.
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The ministry is also fast-tracking a €9 million (approximately Ksh 1.4 billion) financing agreement to accelerate key drought-mitigation projects.
"This programme is not just about infrastructure — it's about survival. We are committed to ensuring it receives full funding and support to deliver lasting impact to communities on the frontlines of climate vulnerability," said PS Kimotho.
The meeting brought together stakeholders from the National Treasury, the county governments of Turkana and Marsabit, and development partners, with participants joining both in person and virtually.
Progress reports
Both counties presented progress reports highlighting ongoing projects, including dam construction, small-scale irrigation schemes, and livestock resilience programs.
According to a ministry statement, the interventions aim to rehabilitate 5,000 acres of degraded rangeland, create 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, and directly benefit at least 255,000 people.
Northern Kenya has long suffered from prolonged droughts, exacerbated by climate change and limited infrastructure.
Launched as a multi-agency effort, the Drought Resilience Program seeks to build sustainable water access, strengthen livelihoods, and enhance food security in some of Kenya's most arid regions.
The Ministry’s latest push signals a renewed commitment to long-term solutions in a region where drought has shifted from a seasonal concern to a chronic crisis.
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