ILO Invests in Prosopis juliflora Management to Boost Economic Opportunities in Turkana County
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has committed Sh30 million to a groundbreaking initiative aimed at sustainably managing Prosopis juliflora, commonly known as the “mathenge weed,” in Turkana County. The initiative, which will run for one year, is a collaborative effort between the County Government of Turkana and the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI). Its primary goals are to create job opportunities for both local communities and refugees residing in Turkana West Sub-County while addressing environmental restoration and transforming an invasive weed into an economic resource.
ILO Invests in Prosopis juliflora Management
Tackling the Prosopis Challenge
Prosopis juliflora has become a significant environmental issue in Turkana County, particularly in the Turkana West area, where it has invaded an estimated 361,787 hectares of land. Its rapid spread into rangelands and wetlands has made eradication efforts challenging, affecting both the environment and the livelihoods of local communities. The invasive plant not only alters the local ecosystem but also competes with native species and reduces available land for grazing, posing a serious threat to pastoralism, which is a key economic activity in the region.
However, this new initiative aims to turn the tide on the Prosopis menace by exploring its potential economic uses. By converting the weed into viable products, the project seeks to create economic opportunities while rehabilitating the degraded lands it has affected.
Economic Empowerment Through Innovation
The initiative will focus on utilizing Prosopis juliflora in the formulation of fodder, contributing to improved livestock productivity in the region. The project will also encourage local communities to embrace new technologies for transforming the invasive plant into economically valuable products, such as wood, charcoal, and construction materials, which could open new revenue streams for the area.
During the official launch of the project, Turkana Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting its potential to restore the environment and provide sustainable economic opportunities. “As we appreciate the ILO PROSPECTS program and KEFRI, the county government is fully committed to working with all partners to ensure the sustainable utilization of Prosopis for economic empowerment of local communities,” said Dr. Erus.
Integrated Approach to Community Resilience
Dr. Joram Kagombe, representing KEFRI Director Dr. Jane Njuguna, emphasized the importance of integrating social protection, job creation, skills development, and livelihood diversification into the project. The restoration of Prosopis-invaded areas is expected to lead to the establishment of pasture, food crops, and indigenous trees, which will improve food security and resilience against the effects of climate change.
The project aligns with Turkana County’s broader efforts to enhance economic opportunities for both local populations and refugees under the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF). By incorporating refugees into the project, the initiative will not only address environmental degradation but also contribute to social cohesion and stability by providing equitable economic opportunities for displaced populations and host communities alike.
Targeted Areas and Community Involvement
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Tourism, Culture, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, Audan Leah Lokala, confirmed that several areas in Turkana County have been prioritized for the project. These include Kakuma, Pelekech, Lopur, Nasinyono, Lokangae, Morung’ole, Letea, and Loritit, which have been severely affected by the Prosopis invasion.
KEFRI worked closely with the Directorate of Natural Resources during the mapping process to identify these project sites. The goal is to help small-scale farmers transition into large-scale farming by restoring the land and improving its productivity. By addressing the Prosopis issue, these areas will become more suitable for sustainable agricultural practices, offering greater opportunities for economic growth and food security.
Flagging Off of Key Project Equipment
As part of the launch, the Deputy Governor flagged off two utility vehicles and program equipment for Prosopis-based production. These vehicles and equipment will support the logistics and implementation of the project. Additionally, local community-based groups will benefit from skills training and technology transfer, helping them develop nature-based enterprises that focus on sustainable use of local resources.
The project also marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Turkana County, where innovative solutions to environmental challenges are being harnessed to improve both the economy and the quality of life for local residents. By turning an invasive weed into an economic asset, this initiative is setting a strong example of how environmental restoration and economic development can go hand in hand.
Looking Ahead: ILO Invests in Prosopis juliflora Management in Turkana County
The ILO’s investment in the Prosopis juliflora management project offers hope for a sustainable future in Turkana County. With collaborative efforts from the county government, KEFRI, and local communities, the initiative has the potential to restore damaged ecosystems, create jobs, and improve livelihoods. As the project progresses, it will serve as a model for other regions facing similar environmental challenges, demonstrating how innovative approaches to natural resource management can benefit both people and the environment.
ILO Invests in Prosopis juliflora Management to Boost Economic Opportunities in Turkana County