Sh6.4bn fund for lake region counties vital

It is in the interest of counties in the same regions to closely co-operate to exploit economies of scale in tackling development challenges. Unfortunately, the various blocs have failed to take off and could end up becoming talking shops or avenues for governors and other leaders to pursue self-aggrandisement.

However, if well-coordinated, these blocs present a mechanism for pooling resources to solve regional problems. One of the most active is the lake region bloc, whose leaders have been holding regular meetings to discuss the obstacles they face and how to enhance cooperation for mutual benefit.

And a new initiative appears to be a welcome way to solve some of their problems. The Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB), which comprises 12 counties, is set to receive Sh6.4 billion funding that could make a huge impact on its people’s lives. The funding is aimed at transforming the agricultural sector. Its major objective is boosting the local people’s livelihoods through climate-resilient, low-carbon agricultural value chains. The implementation of the six-year project is set to begin in August.

Cooperatives Principal Secretary Patrick Kilemi says the project intends to address the escalating climate change challenges and unsustainable agricultural practices. It will benefit over 2.7 million people in the lake region, half of whom are women. It is also expected to boost environmentally sustainable agriculture value chains by accelerating transfer of technology, knowledge and services. It is funded by the Green Climate Fund, the Food and Agriculture Organization and the Danish and Kenyan governments.

To achieve these vital goals, the funds being provided should be prudently managed and projects efficiently implemented and monitored. Its success will not only improve the people’s livelihoods but is a sure way to attract more funding. The endemic corruption and wastage must be curbed for the lake basin region to fully benefit from this worthy initiative.