In an effort towards building resilience in pastoral communities, the Derisking Inclusion and Value Enhancement Project (DRIVE) recently concluded a comprehensive two-week training program from 23rd January to 2nd Feruary, 2024 for community mobilizers. The initiative aims to shield pastoral economies against drought risks and enhance the financial inclusion of pastoralists while fostering better connections to markets.
The training program rolled out in 12 ASAL Counties namely Isiolo, Kajiado, Lamu, Tana-River, Narok, Garissa, Marsabit, Samburu, Laikipia, Mandera, Wajir and Turkana. The training was organized by the State Department for Livestock Development (SDLD) as the lead implementation arm, in collaboration with ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance Company) and Kenya Development Corporation (KDC).
The focus of the trainig was to equip community mobilizers with the necessary skills and knowledge of guiding the farmers on premium calculation of Index-Based Livestock Insurance and digital registrations in order to effectively implement the DRIVE project’s objectives at the grassroot levels.
Community mobilizers will play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the project and the pastoral communities, with their primary mission being to enlighten farmers about the project and promote the adoption of Index-Based Livestock Insurance (IBLI) among pastoralists. Mobilizers will strategically reach out to farmers through their respective livestock-related value chain groups.
This targeted approach allows for tailored communication and engagement, ensuring that the unique needs and challenges of each group are effectively addressed
ZEP-RE is responsible for Component 1, which subsidizes livestock insurance premiums, promotes financial savings through a one-time bonus of KES 6,000, offers a continuous financial savings bonus (15% of savings, capped at KES 12,000), and manages digital payments for the financial packages, including insurance and savings. Mobilizers will guide pastoralists on accessing financial services such as subsidized livestock insurance premiums.
With the community mobilizers now well-versed in the intricacies of the DRIVE project, there is optimism that their grassroots efforts will contribute significantly to the project’s success.
