Kacheliba:West Pokot Pastoralist communities in West Pokot County are being encouraged to insure their livestock as a precautionary measure against unforeseen losses. County Commissioner David Saruni highlighted the government’s support for livestock insurance, covering 70 percent of the insurance cost while urging farmers to meet the remaining 30 percent to protect against adverse events such as drought.
According to Kenya News Agency, Commissioner Saruni explained that during droughts, many farmers suffer due to a lack of pasture, leading to decreased livestock production. He mentioned that the government uses technology to monitor drought conditions and provides funds for farmers to purchase animal feed.
West Pokot is part of the De-risking, Inclusion and Value Enhancement of Pastoral Economies (DRIVE) Programme, aimed at enhancing pastoralists’ resilience to climate and other risks. Saruni also urged residents to enroll in the SHA universal health coverage to avoid disposing of livestock for medical expenses, noting that one goat could cover the costs of SHA.
Additionally, the County Commissioner advised Kacheliba residents to protect their land from encroachment, especially in areas earmarked for public development projects, including a proposed airstrip. He commended the government’s investments in road infrastructure and affordable housing projects in the area.
Kacheliba MP Titus Lotee praised the government’s development efforts, particularly the improvement of the road network. He encouraged residents to consider purchasing units within the Affordable Houses programme, which aims to uplift West Pokot from marginalization.
The Kacheliba Affordable Housing Programme site has been handed over to a contractor at Sh687 million, with construction anticipated to commence immediately.
