Oloitoktok: The Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, ASALs, and Regional Development, Beatrice Askul, has inaugurated the Oloitoktok Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Programme. The ten-year programme aims to promote sustainable environmental practices, improve resource management, and provide income-generating opportunities for the local community through a variety of projects.
According to Kenya News Agency, the programme was officially launched at Entarara Primary School, where CS Askul articulated the initiative’s focus on capacity building, sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism, and green technologies. The goal is to drive long-term environmental and socio-economic resilience in the region. ‘By enhancing key value chains in agriculture, livestock, and eco-tourism, this initiative will provide the local community with practical tools to adapt to climate change while also contributing to the national agenda of economic development,’ stated Askul.
The programme aims to conserve the environmen
t through forest protection, reforestation, afforestation, wildlife safeguarding, and biodiversity support. It seeks to combat desertification and reverse land degradation via sustainable land management methods. Additionally, Askul highlighted that the project intends to enhance household incomes by developing key agricultural and livestock value chains, focusing on value addition and processing within sectors like tomatoes, mangoes, dairy, beef, beekeeping, and leather.
To address drought, the programme plans to improve water access by developing water pans, dams, and boreholes, thus supporting livestock management during dry periods and ensuring a resilient water supply for both humans and animals. The programme aligns with Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, specifically Goal 17, which emphasises revitalising global partnerships for sustainable development. It was launched in collaboration with entities such as Ewaso Ngiro South Development Authority, Kerio Valley Development Authority, Water Resour
ce Authority, WWF-Kenya, the County Government of Kajiado, Kajiado South CDF, and the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation, among others.
As part of the programme’s initiation, the CS and partners distributed 16 improved cattle breeds to women’s groups, 6000 fruit tree seedlings, 150 beehives and beekeeping equipment to the Entarara Community Forest Association, assorted beadwork materials for women’s groups, ecotourism support supplies, and 10,000 assorted tree seedlings. The programme’s sustainability will focus on efficient resource management, community participation, and financial stability. ‘The active involvement of the local community will foster a sense of ownership, ensuring that these initiatives are sustained beyond the programme’s timeline,’ said Askul.
The programme will align with existing national policies and regulations, ensuring it complements government efforts and secures institutional support. CS Askul encouraged stakeholders to collaborate, share knowledge, and build
a future where environmental sustainability and economic prosperity coexist, securing a sustainable future for all. She was accompanied by Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, Harsama Kello, Area Member of Parliament Sakimba Parashina, and leaders of the various Regional Development Authorities.