Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale joined county and national leaders on Thursday to launch a financial empowerment program for 11 women groups in Lmisigiyoi and Loturo, aiming to strengthen economic opportunities for pastoralist communities.
The initiative was hosted at Lmisigiyoi Primary School and brought together government officials and development stakeholders.
The program provided targeted financial assistance to women-led groups, supporting initiatives designed to improve livelihoods and foster economic resilience in Samburu County.
According to CS Duale, the government’s engagement is part of broader efforts to address the socio-economic challenges facing pastoralist communities in northern Kenya.
“This support empowers women to participate fully in economic activities while reinforcing social cohesion within their communities,” Duale said during the event.
He also called on Kenyans to reject divisive politics, emphasizing the importance of national unity in development efforts.
Samburu Governor Lati Lelelit, who hosted the gathering, highlighted the role of women in sustaining local economies.
“Investing in women strengthens families and communities alike,” the governor stated.
The ceremony brought together Samburu Woman Representative Pauline Lenguris, Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuda, DHA CEO Anthony Lenaiyara, and KNH CEO Richard Lesiyampe, among other county and regional officials.
The empowerment drive aligns with government initiatives to improve access to financial resources for marginalized groups, particularly in pastoralist regions that historically face limited infrastructure and recurring economic challenges.
Participants were expected to deploy the funds toward projects that enhance income-generating activities, contributing to long-term stability in their communities.
CS Duale also reiterated support for President William Ruto’s administration, noting efforts to prioritize development in previously underserved areas.
While the program focuses on immediate economic support, officials underscored its role in promoting inclusive growth and community cohesion.
By targeting women’s groups, the initiative seeks to address the dual challenges of economic vulnerability and social marginalization.
The program’s rollout reflects a coordinated effort between county leadership and national agencies to bolster livelihoods while reinforcing governance and accountability structures in pastoralist counties.