Youth and women-led enterprises engaged in agri-food value chains in Turkana have benefitted from a two-day workshop on finance and market access, convened under the Vijana in KilimoBizz initiative.
The workshop was organized by the World Food Programme (WFP) through the MasterCard Foundation and in collaboration with the county government, under the theme “Connecting Youth to Real Opportunities for Growth and Transformation.”
The county secretary, Dr. Richard Titus Ekai, called for a shift in perception among young people towards agriculture, emphasizing its potential for profitability and sustainable employment.
“Agriculture is no longer a fallback option. With the right mindsetand support, it is a viable and profitable venture. Turkana youth must take advantage of the many empowerment initiatives available and lead the transformation of our economy,” said Dr Ekai.
The County Executive (CEC) for Trade, Gender and Tourism, James Longo’le Wangiros stated, “We are intentionally bringing together all players from public and private sector to create a supportive environment for youth entrepreneurs. This forum is not just about training, but unlocking real opportunities.”
On his part, the Chief Officer for Gender and Youth Affair, Joseph Epuu, highlighted the county government’s commitment towards supporting youth and women.
“The County has allocated Sh70 million during this financial year to address youth and women matters. I challenge our young people and women to grab these opportunities and turn their ideas into enterprises,” he said.
The Chief Officer for Agriculture and Irrigation, David Maraka, urged the youth to leverage innovation in agribusiness, stating that “Agribusiness offers a sustainable pathway to self-reliance. I encourage our youth to be bold and creative and explore value addition across the food chain.”
The Chief Officer for Trade, Pauline Tang’arae, stated that the County Biashara and Cooperatives Funds were available and called on the participants to apply to start or scale up their businesses.
The Head of the WFP Lodwar Office, Sara Ayodi, said, “There is a global shift from aid to resilience. The youth must stop seeing themselves as dependents and start thinking like solution providers.”
Speaking on behalf of youth participants, Naomi Eyanae, the CEO of KIMMEL Model Farm, shared her success story.
“Through the KilimoBizz initiative, my hatchery now produces over 1,200 chicks every week. This support has transformed our outlook. I urge fellow youth to be proactive, as opportunities exist only if you’re willing to work for them.”
During the two-day forum, participants took part in practical sessions, mentorship engagements, and interactive panels that focused on unlocking finance, enhancing market linkages and building entrepreneurial skills.
The program further showcased various financing models, digital tools, and incubation platforms tailored to help youth-led agribusinesses scale and thrive in a competitive market.
Other speakers included Susan Aletia (UN Regional Coordinator), Walter Mutsotso (Head of Program, WFP), Raphael Logumo (Director for Partnerships and Resources Mobilization), Shemmy Ekuwam (Director of Cooperatives), Mollen Onderi (Deputy Director of Gender), Linus Ekidor (Deputy Director of Youth Affairs) and Peter Mwaniki (WFP).
The forum brought together representatives from the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry—Turkana Chapter, Turkana College University and financial institutions, including Kenya Commercial Bank, Equity Bank, Cooperative Bank and MSEA World Bank.
By Peter Gitonga
