Lomekwi: Over 1,000 fishermen in Lake Turkana are set to benefit from strategic investments totaling Sh253 million, thanks to USAID. The initiative, which includes the distribution of eight new fiber boats, was unveiled in a ceremony presided over by USAID mission Director for Kenya and East Africa, David Gosney, and Turkana Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus. This intervention aims to enhance the fishing capabilities of the local fishermen by providing them with better equipment to access deeper parts of the lake. According to Kenya News Agency, the fiber boats are part of a broader eight-year program implemented in the Turkana and Samburu counties, funded by USAID and executed through USAID Nawiri. The initiative not only includes the boats but also encompasses various other resources aimed at improving the local fishing industry and the overall community welfare. Turkana County has reportedly received 70 percent of a $45 million allocation under this program, as stated by USAID Nawiri Chief of Party, Hussein N oor. The local fishermen have also received training on constructing traditional wooden boats, with the first three boats crafted being sold for Sh 80,000 each, ensuring that cost-effective fishing methods remain accessible. Lomodei Ekiru, one of the beneficiaries, expressed that the new fiber boats, which use petrol, will significantly boost their fishing range and capacity. The shift from older, more labor-intensive wooden boats to these modern fiber boats is expected to increase profits and reduce operational costs for the fishermen. David Gosney highlighted the transformative impact of the program on his visit, noting the improved income and nutritional outcomes among the beneficiaries. He underscored the progress in health within the community, with marked reductions in diseases such as diarrhea and dysentery by one-third, thanks to enhanced sanitation services. The program also addresses broader resilience and development issues by improving access to quality healthcare and fostering economic growth t hrough skill development and business training. The USAID Nawiri program has established over 3,000 groups involved in various sectors including electrical and mechanical engineering, and dressmaking, benefiting a total of 471,000 participants from Turkana County. It has also developed 16 irrigation schemes and numerous other nutrition and food security projects, covering 68,000 hectares of land for crop production. Sustainability of these projects is ensured through training local ward development committees and water user associations, which help in maintaining and managing the resources effectively. Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus emphasized the importance of these collaborations, particularly in adapting to climate challenges and developing local value chains that support the community's economic stability.