Sh 70 million credit facility targets pastoral economies in West Pokot

The Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) has advanced Sh70 million to Eco Pillar Sacco under its De-Risking, Inclusion and Value Enhancement (DRIVE) project, targeting livestock value chains in West Pokot and Turkana counties.

This wholesale financing facility was presented during a ceremony attended by Principal Secretary Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, Governor Simon Kachapin, KDC Director General Norah Ratemo, and other senior officials.

The funds support MSMEs operating across the livestock value chain, including fodder supply, animal health, and processing for milk, meat, and leather.

Statistics confirm the sector's importance: livestock contributes approximately 12 per cent to Kenya’s GDP and 40 per cent of agricultural GDP. In arid regions like West Pokot, livestock supports up to 90 per cent of household incomes.

“This is about delivering real solutions to real people in real time. West Pokot’s economy is anchored on livestock production, and this investment is about strengthening productivity, stabilizing incomes and building long-term resilience,” said Abubakar.

Governor Kachapin added, “Through our combined efforts to expand access to credit, invest in trade infrastructure and strengthen local enterprises, we are creating sustainable opportunities for economic growth. We are empowering businesses and households, ensuring that the people of West Pokot prosper.”

More than 80 percent of West Pokot residents depend on livestock, though climate variability remains a threat.

Ratemo confirmed an initial Sh35 million tranche has reached 170 farmers, with 54 percent being youth and women.

“This facility is a practical tool to increase livestock productivity, boost incomes, and strengthen livelihoods,” she said.

Eco Pillar Sacco CEO Linus Lokira equally noted that demand for Kilimo and Ufugaji loans has since surged across both counties.