The Pastoralist Leadership Summit (PLS) officially began today in Wajir County, bringing together leaders and stakeholders from 15 pastoralist counties across Kenya. The event seeks to address key issues affecting pastoralist communities and explore ways to integrate the sector more effectively into the national economy.
With the theme “Unlocking Policy and Financial Bottlenecks to Mainstream Pastoralism in Kenya,” the summit focuses on tackling critical challenges, including climate change, governance, and the development of the livestock economy. The initiative also aims to create policies that strengthen the resilience and livelihoods of pastoralist populations.
Speaking during the opening session, Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi emphasized the summit’s role as a platform for collaborative problem-solving. “This is not merely a discussion forum. It is an opportunity to critique, brainstorm, and develop actionable strategies to address the unique challenges pastoralist counties face,” he stated.
Participants at the summit include governors, members of parliament, development partners, policy experts, and United Nations representatives. Topics under discussion include the impact of climate change, the role of devolution in empowering local communities, and infrastructure development, such as the Isiolo-Mandera corridor.
Governor Abdullahi highlighted the transformative role of devolved governance in reducing losses during crises and improving disaster management. “Over the last decade, devolution has empowered local communities, ensuring better coordination and interventions during emergencies,” he noted.
Lamu Governor Issa Timamy, a founding member of the Frontier Counties Development Council (FCDC), shared insights on shared challenges and opportunities across counties. “Despite our diversity, we aim to strengthen resilience and improve livelihoods. Recent achievements, such as Lamu’s disaster management recognition, show what can be accomplished through collaboration,” he remarked.
Infrastructure development was also a major focus, with leaders acknowledging the importance of integrating Northern Kenya into national development plans. “Projects like the Isiolo-Mandera corridor symbolize our region’s growing inclusion in Kenya’s development framework,” Governor Abdullahi added.
The summit will continue over the coming days, deliberating on actionable strategies to enhance the pastoralist sector, strengthen governance, and empower communities in the face of emerging challenges.