Taita Taveta Wildlife Conservancy Association (TTWCA) in collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Conservancy Association (KWCA), has recently embarked on a project that will positively impact five women’s groups in the Kasighau region.
These groups have been provided with Gala goats, a project that aims to support the economic and social standing of women in the region by providing them with a sustainable livelihood option.
The Gala goats, a hardy breed known for its adaptability and high milk production, will be grazed at the Kasighau Ranch, a prime location within the conservancy’s expansive landscape.
The five women’s groups will be responsible for the care and management of the Gala goats and the introduction of the goats is not just a form of economic support but a long-term investment in the lives of the women and their families.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Alfred Mwanake, the Chief officer of TTWCA, explains that by supporting the women with livestock, TTWCA and KWCA is not only empowering women but also promoting forms of land use that complements conservation efforts.
“Our goal is not only support local communities but to do so in a way that aligns with conservation principles, and by giving these women access to grazing areas within the conservancy, we are showing that it is possible to balance human livelihoods with wildlife conservation,” Mwanake said.
He stated that the goats will provide a sustainable source of income through sale of milk, meat and the groups will also be able to export the goats to other countries such as the Arab nations.
“We have recently observed that there has been an interest in exporting livestock to other countries, and these women will be at the forefront in increasing their livestock numbers and becoming among those who benefit from this livestock export business,” Mwanake added.
Maurine Nduati, the gender officer of TTWCA shares that they have conducted a comprehensive training on business management and financial literacy, which has equipped the women with relevant skills in business management, particularly in goat farming.
“By providing them with practical skills in business management and livestock farming, we are helping them to navigate challenges such as drought, which has been a major issue in this region. We want these women to become experts in livestock rearing and, ultimately, entrepreneurs,” she stated.
Peshu Joyce, the gender officer of KWCA, explains that unlike before where the benefits that were reaching the community were minimal, the goat farming project will enable the community to receive direct benefits.
“With this goat farming initiative, we’re hopeful we will see direct benefits flow to the community. When women are empowered financially, the ripple effect positively impacts the community,” Joyce stated.
Fidlorah Mrunde Mwacharo, one of the women beneficiaries of the KWCA and TTWCA projects expressed her gratitude during the handover stating, “This is a dream come true for many of us, we have been looking for ways to support our families and this project will help us. We are grateful to TTWCA and KWCA for believing in us and giving us this opportunity.”
