US comes calling with Sh6b project for North Eastern counties

By ALI ABDI

The US government will spend Sh6 billion in five northern Kenya counties in a programme geared towards greater economic opportunities.

US Agency for International Development Aid (USAid) mission director for Kenya, Karen Freeman yesterday met governors from Isiolo, Marsabit, Garissa, Wajir and Turkana count in Isiolo town where she launched the programme.

The governors were Godana Doyo, (Isiolo) Ukur Yattani (Marsabit), Nadhif Adam (Garrisa, pictured right), Ahamed Abdulahi (Wajir) and Josephat Nanok (Turkana). Ms Freeman represented US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec.

The official Sidai Super Service Centre, a major veterinary drug store, through Africa development solutions (Adeso), opened two major stores and eight veterinary outlets in Isiolo and Marsabit counties.

The programme in the five counties includes improving livestock management, water and sanitation, health and livelihoods.

It is aimed at building resilience of the pastoralists to counter the challenges of climate change and other disasters. “The partnership we are starting today will help Kenya’s arid land achieve sustainable economic growth for decades to come,” said Ms Freeman.

She added: “We have been partners for 50 years and have much more to do together. This resilient programme will improve the lives and livelihoods of the communities and make Kenya a better place.

Economic growth in the region will focus on strengthening and diversifying economic activities of the locals.

USaid and her four partners care international catholic relief service, food for the hungry and world vision will set up more than 250 infrastructure projects to improve water and sanitation and health centres among other areas.