Projects

Short Description:

Overall goal

Recurrent droughts have continued to affect Garissa District in North Eastern Kenya over the years contributing incalculably to a precarious food insecurity situation that has seen a significant number of formerly self dependent pastoralists turn into destitute. In an effort to cope, a large number of pastoral dropouts have and continue to move into settlements in search of some form of relief (food and water). Notwithstanding, those with few surviving animals have settled along the river in order to access some pasture and browse. Presently, 53% of the district's population continues to rely on a WFP funded general food distribution programme through CARE. The numbers are expected to increase in the next months proceeding the Guu (short rains) season which remains critical as it will mark the epitome of the drought situation characterized by severe stress among the pastoralists.

In providing solutions to the extensive food security problem, stakeholders continue to explore alternative livelihoods that revolve around restocking of indigenous breeds of livestock, enhanced livestock trade as well as support to irrigated agriculture along the Tana river. In addressing the situation, CARE is sourcing funds to facilitate the promotion of irrigated agriculture among the riverine communities for improved food security. CARE proposes to work with selected vulnerable groups through the provision of seeds and tools and basic trainings tailored the farmers needs. The proposed project is in line with the current district development plan for Garissa District and will contribute to the already existing efforts in drought mitigation interventions that enhance access to a reliable supply of food. It is anticipated that 1000 small scale farmers will directly benefit from the project.