Kenya launches CASHA Project to empower youth and women in livestock sector

KENYA – The government of Kenya has launched a five-year initiative that aims to uplift 300,000 youth and women in the livestock sector across 15 arid and semi-arid land (ASAL) counties. 

The program, known as the Creating Shared Value with Young People in the Livestock Sector (CASHA) Project, was unveiled in Lodwar by Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, ASALs and Regional Development Beatrice Moe, alongside Principal Secretary Kello Harsama, with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

The CASHA Project is designed to transform livelihoods by strengthening livestock production systems, creating agribusiness opportunities, and fostering innovation in value addition. 

According to CS Moe, the program is a timely intervention to tackle food insecurity and high unemployment rates in marginalized regions.

“The livestock sector is a lifeline for communities in ASAL areas. By equipping our youth and women with skills, knowledge, and resources, this project will enable them to create wealth, improve resilience, and contribute to national development,” Moe said during the launch.

Focus on resilience and opportunities

The project will prioritize bridging gaps in market access, capacity building, and climate resilience. It is expected to boost farmer incomes, generate employment for youth and women, and contribute significantly to food and nutrition security.

FAO Kenya officials emphasized their commitment to working closely with county governments, development partners, and community groups to ensure that the initiative delivers long-term results. 

County leaders, youth representatives, civil society actors, and development partners who attended the launch pledged their support to the program’s vision of inclusive and sustainable growth.

In Makueni County, the project is expected to directly benefit over 2,000 youth through sustainable fodder production, agribusiness ventures, and commercialization of livestock feeds. 

During a recent meeting with FAO officials, Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili welcomed the initiative, noting that it would strengthen household incomes and food security while integrating climate-smart practices to safeguard the environment.

Complementary efforts with AfDB

The government is also seeking broader partnerships to accelerate development in ASAL regions. The Principal Secretary for ASALs  recently held a strategic session with senior African Development Bank (AfDB) officials to explore new areas of collaboration.

The talks centered on cross-border integration, peacebuilding, food security, and inclusive economic growth. According to the PS, the partnership has the potential to transform ASAL communities by investing in food systems, infrastructure, and peace initiatives.

“This engagement with AfDB is a step towards building resilience and prosperity in ASAL regions. By investing in food systems, infrastructure, and peace initiatives, we can uplift millions of lives and strengthen regional stability,” he said.

AfDB officials reaffirmed their readiness to channel resources into projects that directly benefit vulnerable populations, highlighting the importance of aligning efforts with Kenya’s national strategies.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.