West Pokot County Strengthens Climate Resilience for Pastoralists Through Livestock Insurance and Trade Support
The County Government of West Pokot, in partnership with key stakeholders, continues to champion financial resilience and sustainable livelihoods for pastoralists through the De-Risking, Inclusion, and Value Enhancement (DRIVE) Project. This initiative, designed to protect livestock keepers from the devastating effects of drought, is making remarkable progress in the county.
Today, County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, Wilfred Longronyang, alongside Chief Officer Naomi Lemreng, received a delegation from the DRIVE project for an update on its implementation and impact in West Pokot.
Implemented in collaboration with the State Department for Livestock Development (SDLD), ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance Company), and Kenya Development Corporation (KDC), the project offers index-based livestock insurance, financial savings bonuses, and improved credit access to safeguard pastoralists from economic shocks.
With 11,329 registered pastoralists, the program has already benefited 10,565 eligible farmers, distributing a total of KES 63.39 million in financial bonuses. To date, KES 59.7 million has been paid to 9,951 beneficiaries, while payments for 614 pastoralists are pending due to data verification.
Beyond insurance, the DRIVE project is enhancing the livestock value chain through affordable loans via KDC, digital payment solutions, and trade facilitation services. These interventions align with the county’s overarching agenda of "Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Growth."
CECM Longronyang acknowledged the program’s role in transforming the local livestock sector, stating, “For years, our pastoralists have struggled with unpredictable weather conditions that threaten their livestock and income. The DRIVE project is a game changer, ensuring financial security and better access to credit.
Under the leadership of H.E. Simon Kachapin, the county government remains dedicated to expanding financial inclusion, modernizing livestock farming, and fostering private sector investments to enhance economic resilience.