Kenya

"Garissa Pastoralist Project "

The programme seeks to facilitate the reduction of risk and vulnerabilities of natural and man disasters. By working closely with the government, the civil society and other UN agencies, the area builds capacity for disaster management, mitigation, preparedness and prevention and facilitates the development of policies and programmes that incorporate conflict prevention and peace building.

Presently the programme is supporting the development of district contingency plans in arid and semi-arid lands districts, and the development and implementation of a national policy on disaster management including a policy on climate early warning and products.

MITIGATING ARMED CONFLICT IN GARISSA

Main cause of conflict in Garissa district is over livestock, pasture and watering points. This is a common problem throughout the pastoral regions, which stretch across northern Kenya. UNDP works together with the Office of the President-Government, Pastoralists People Development Initiative,ARID LANDS secretariat and civil society to prevent and reduce the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, decrease national and cross-border conflicts, reduce community risks and increase development and progress.The Enhanced Security Unit of UNDP, Kenya has initiated project which empowers communities in Garissa by giving them 40,000 Kenya Shillings to explore alternative means of livelihood. Women and youth are the main targets. Click here for a pictorial report on the Garissa Mission on 17-21 September 2006.

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