KOICA, UN WOMEN AND VILLAGE ENTERPRISE EFFORTS IN EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE

Governor Simon Kachapin has received a delegation from KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency), UN Women and Village Enterprise, in an exit meeting marking the culmination of collaborative efforts aimed at empowering women through climate-smart agriculture in West Pokot.

During the meeting, Kyounghwa HA, M&E Expert on Gender, (KOICA), highlighted the significant progress made in empowering women and enhancing community resilience in West Pokot. Targeting areas such as Riwo, Suam, and Batei, the initiative engaged 27 groups, promoting women's participation in decision-making and entrepreneurship.

Governor Kachapin commended the partnership's impact on addressing longstanding challenges, including insecurity and limited economic opportunities for women. He emphasized the importance of sustainability, pledging the county government's commitment to ensuring the project's continuation.

Mary Kiratu, M&E Specialist, UN Women, noted that KOICA and UN Women were pleased with the project’s progress and success, saying that KOICA and UN Women were eager to find ways to extend the project.

Deputy Governor Robert Komolle reiterated the need to extend the project to other wards or initiate another phase, recognizing its transformative potential.

With Governor Kachapin's assurance of continued support and collaboration, the journey towards women empowerment through climate-smart agriculture in West Pokot continues to inspire hope and progress.

Present were Suyeon Hansu- Program Associate, (KOICA), Sujin Kim- M&E Expert (KOICA), Atupomoi Moses- Project Assistant, West Pokot (UN Women), Mercy Tumkou, Village Enterprise, County Secretary Jonathan Siwanyang, CEC Wilfred Long’ironyang (Agriculture & Livestock), Chief of Staff Tyno Rotino, Chief Officer Edwin Lokomol representing his CEC among others.

The KOICA/ UN Women team is in the county for three days for a donor monitoring mission.