Turkana County, Kenya – Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has officially launched a partnership between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Turkana Chapter. This new initiative aims to foster business development and growth within Turkana County.
According to Kenya News Agency, the partnership will concentrate on several key areas, including training and capacity building for local businesses, facilitating access to finance, promoting entrepreneurship, supporting cooperative development, and enhancing cross-border integration. A notable component of this collaboration is the inclusion of opportunities for refugees, aiming to foster integration with the host community in business ventures.
During the launch at Ceamo Hotel, Lomorukai emphasized the significance of such partnerships in equipping the business community and providing entrepreneurial grants. He reiterated the county’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment.
The governor recognized the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s efforts in training and capacity building of local traders. He urged the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) to consider certifying businesspeople to help them access more opportunities.
KNCCI-Turkana Chairperson Justus Ewoi expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with ILO, acknowledging the support from partners in capacity building and business opportunity expansion. Ewoi highlighted the partnership’s potential in job creation, economic growth, and improving the livelihoods of local communities.
The ILO has been active in Turkana County since 2016, initially supporting businesses in Turkana West and Central. With this new collaboration, ILO plans to extend its efforts to all seven sub-counties. Lilyanne Ndinda, the National Project Coordinator of ILO PROSPECTS, affirmed the organization’s commitment to fostering business development and growth in the county and collaborating with KNCCI on a global scale.
The event was attended by senior county government officials, including County Executive for Education Leah Audan, Chief Officers Robert Loyelei, Paul Lodung’a, John Korikel, Chief of Staff Peter Yoromoe, and Director Vocational Training Stephen Eregae. Also present were ILO’s regional Specialist Asfaw Kidanu, UNHCR Assistant Livelihood and Economic Inclusion Officer Edith Ingutia, and members of the Kakuma business community.
This partnership marks a significant step towards economic development in Turkana County, offering new opportunities for local businesses and fostering community integration.