By Betty Luke
Eighteen (18) youth and women groups in Isiolo have a reason to smile after they received Sh1.8 million grants under Sh128 million German funded three-year climate project.
The project being implemented by Merti Integrated Development Programme (MID-P) is aimed at promoting agriculture and livestock farming for more than 300 agro-pastoralists and 1000 pastoralists.
The grant of Sh100, 000 per group is meant to ensure climate resilient communities and enhanced livelihoods.
The groups are Kulamawe Kinisa Bee Keepers, Insene farmers, Dhase cultural, Tuut Kinisa, Tulla, Bada, Biftu Chari, Halcha lactating mothers and Wombidi.
Others are Sericho Muslim Daawa Youth, Napuku Esere, Rapsu Neema, Naserian women group, Gummi youth group, Modogashe bodaboda, Association for Development dreamers, Naishamunye Girls and Naserian women group.
The groups are from Oldonyiro, Kinna, Garbatulla, Cherab, Sericho and Chari wards and are involved in entrepreneurship, fodder production and livestock keeping among others.
During the issuance of the cheques in Isiolo town, MID-P Director Molu Tepo and Program officer Ibrahim Kabelo asked the beneficiaries to prudently use the funds to better their lives and livelihoods.
The MID-P office, the officials said, will track on use of the funds to ensure they go into right use.
“To ensure the funds are well utilized and for intended purpose, you will be required to submit to us a business plan and monthly breakdown of how the funds are used,” said Mr Kabelo.
Isiolo County Trade and Cooperatives Chief Officer Lucy Kaburu said the devolved unit was keen on training youth and women groups on among others entrepreneurship and how to write proposals for funding.
“The monies are non-refundable but ensure it improves your lives and increases your income,” she told the beneficiaries.
Under the program, farmers will also be given farm tools and inputs as well as certified drought-resistant seeds while pastoralists will enjoy free veterinary services and animal supplements.
