Kakuma: Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus has urged beneficiaries of the Kakuma Kalobeyei Challenge Fund (KKCF) to grow their enterprises into commercial ventures that create jobs for the local population. Dr. Erus spoke Friday during a two-day Exhibition and Trade Fair in Kakuma, hosted by the County Government and KKCF in partnership with the Turkana Chapter of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI). The event brought together KKCF investees to showcase products and build networks for expansion.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Erus emphasized that the investment by the World Bank Group-IFC program delivered through KKCF should be seen as seed capital. He highlighted that beyond the loans and grants awarded, real businesses stand out by expanding employment opportunities. The county has supported development partners’ efforts by advocating for Kakuma’s elevation to municipal status, with the Kakuma Biashara Huduma Centre and the Kakuma Modern Market aimed at improving the local business environment.
Dr. Erus revealed plans to expand the Kakuma Modern Market by constructing a slaughterhouse and upgrading the road network between Kakuma and Letea. These projects are expected to unlock more opportunities for traders. Kakuma Camp Manager and Head of the Department of Refugee Services, Thomas Siele, encouraged traders to consolidate the Kakuma market before expanding to Lodwar and other towns, highlighting the potential to draw consumers from within Turkana and across the border amid peaceful coexistence between host and refugee communities.
Director for Trade Winnie Loposh assured that business support programs would continue even after KKCF’s exit. Elizabeth Lokoolio, one of 120 KKCF investors and owner of Silo Feeds, shared how the program helped her business grow into a processing operation capable of employing people and attracting partners. KNCCI Turkana CEO Paul Erukudi stated that the exhibition demonstrated Turkana’s readiness for further investment and urged the county to legislate market days and establish a trade calendar.
The fair was also attended by CECM for Public Service Patrick Losike Lokaimoe and representatives from the World Food Programme, UNHCR, Inkomoko, ICEA Lion, KCB, Equity Bank, and the Kenya Bankers Association.
