In-Country Training Expands Climate-smart Farming and Livelihood Support in Naoros, Turkana Central
The initiative aimed at to strengthening climate resilience in Turkana County gained momentum when Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), rolled out the In-Country Training Project in Naoros, Turkana Central Sub-County, through the Department of Extension and Community Outreach (ESCO).
The Naoros training builds on the success of the earlier phase implemented in Turkwel, Loima Sub-County, reflecting the project’s progressive approach to expand climate-smart interventions across Turkana County.
The initiative seeks to create a ripple effect of knowledge transfer, ensuring more farmers gain access to practical skills, climate-responsive technologies, and sustainable farming practices.
Held from 9-14 February, 2026, the training brought together 50 farmers and community representatives for an intensive, hands-on program aimed at equipping them with practical skills to navigate the impacts of climate change while improving household incomes and food security.
The initiative was implemented under the theme “Enhancing the Capacity of Refugee Host Communities for Climate Resilience and Livelihood Improvement (ECHCR-RELI)”, focusing on solution-oriented approaches tailored to the dryland conditions of Turkana Central.
Speaking during the training, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Production and Extension Division (RPE), Prof. Jackson Kwanza underscored the significance of the initiative in strengthening climate resilience and improving livelihoods in the region.
He noted that the project team had previously visited the area and established demonstration crops, but observed that water scarcity had affected the growth of some vegetables and drought-resistant crops such as aloe vera and dragon fruit.
He emphasized the importance of applying the water harvesting and conservation techniques taught during the training to enhance productivity and ensure the sustainability of the initiative.
Mr. Jeremiah Mbugua Nyori, Director of Extension Services and Community Outreach (ESCO), said, the program is already transforming how farmers approach agriculture in dryland areas. He noted that the hands-on, solution-oriented training is equipping participants with practical skills that can directly improve productivity, strengthen food security, and build resilience against climate shocks.
He added that by empowering farmers with relevant knowledge and skills, the initiative is laying a strong foundation for long-term economic growth, improved livelihoods, and community-driven development. He further affirmed the University’s commitment to scaling up similar interventions to reach more vulnerable communities and ensure lasting impact across Turkana County.
The training also incorporated livestock-focused interventions led by Mr. Obadiah Ndwiga from the Department of Animal Sciences, who guided farmers on effective animal disease prevention and control. Through practical demonstrations, participants gained essential knowledge on improving animal health, management practices, and the importance of timely vaccination.
He noted that strengthening disease control and promoting routine goat vaccination would significantly reduce livestock losses, enhance productivity, and improve household incomes.
The training built on previously established demo farms, where farmers had planted drought-resistant crops like aloe vera and dragon fruit. Despite the challenge of limited water, early growth showed promising results, proving that with proper techniques, farmers can achieve resilient and productive crops even in harsh environments.
The demo farms serve as a visible model for climate-smart agriculture, inspiring farmers to adopt and replicate the practices on their own farms.
