August 13, 2024 – Kitui County is taking a proactive stance in safeguarding its pastoral communities against the devastating effects of drought by promoting livestock insurance through the De-Risking Inclusion and Value Enhancement (DRIVE) Project. The World Bank-funded initiative is part of a larger effort by the Government of Kenya to fortify pastoral economies, improve financial inclusion, and boost market connectivity for pastoralists.
During the official opening of the *Community Mobilisers Training Program for the DRIVE Project, held at a Kitui hotel, Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, the Kitui County Executive for Agriculture and Livestock, underscored the importance of the initiative.
The training, which gathered community representatives and mobilizers from all 40 wards, is aimed at equipping them with the knowledge to encourage livestock farmers to insure their herds against the increasing threats posed by climate change.
Dr. Kimwele emphasized that the DRIVE Project, implemented by the State Department for Livestock Development (SDL) in partnership with ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance Company) and the Kenya Development Corporation (KDC), offers pastoralists an opportunity to access subsidized insurance products. These products are designed to be affordable, helping to mitigate the financial risks that come with prolonged drought periods.
“This insurance is not just a safeguard,” Dr. Kimwele stated. “It’s a crucial tool in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of your livelihoods in the face of climate challenges.”
He further highlighted the project’s focus on strengthening the livestock value chain and facilitating livestock trade, ensuring that pastoralists can derive tangible financial benefits from their livestock. The initiative is poised to provide significant advantages, including insurance payouts, savings bonuses, and premium subsidies, all aimed at bolstering the resilience of livestock farmers in the region.
Dr. Kimwele also conveyed Governor Dr. Julius Malombe’s strong commitment to supporting agricultural and livestock initiatives that empower local farmers. He reiterated the county government’s dedication to working with national and international partners to ensure that projects like DRIVE successfully address the challenges posed by climate change and market volatility.
The DRIVE Project is expected to benefit approximately 375,000 pastoralists and their dependents, translating to an estimated 2.4 million people across Kitui County.
*ENDS*
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