ISIOLO COUNTY:  A COUNTY FULL OF PROMISE, BRIMMING WITH INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND CONDUCIVE ENVIROMENT FOR PARTNERSHIPS 

PARTNERSHIP WITH ACTION AGAINST HUNGER TRANSFORMS LIVES IN MALKADAKA VILLAGE

In Isiolo County lies Malkadaka Village, a testament to human resilience amidst climate crisis. It's a place where the winds of change have brought both challenge and opportunity, and where the women of the Habsa Women Group have emerged as beacons of hope.   

Nestled 165 kilometers from Isiolo town, Malkadaka’s 800 households have long grappled with the harsh realities of climate change. Drought and flooding have become all too familiar, often leaving them without the sustenance their livestock once provided. Malnutrition, especially among children and women, has become a pressing issue, a stark reminder of the community’s vulnerabilities.

But amidst these challenges, the Habsa Women Group has found a way forward. In partnership with Action Against Hunger (ACF) and the Isiolo County Government’s Department of Agriculture, they have embraced horticultural farming—a sustainable solution to the problems of food insecurity, dietary diversity, and livelihood diversification.

Wario Huka, the group’s chairman, recounts their journey. Established in 2018, they transitioned from maize farming to cultivating vegetables like onions, kale, spinach, and orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. In 2023, ACF provided critical support, including training on agro-enterprise establishment, Climate Smart Agriculture, and agro-ecology. Certified seeds and farm implements were also provided, along with extension services for pest and disease management.

The results were tangible. The Habsa farmers reported a substantial harvest, including tomatoes, onions, green grams, and hot peppers. These surplus crops were sold in the local market, providing a much-needed boost to the community’s economy.
Beyond economic gains, the project has had a profound impact on nutrition. By growing their own vegetables, the group has diversified their diet and reduced their dependency on livestock products. This has not only improved their health but also empowered them economically.

Janet Muema, ACF’s Food Security and Livelihood Officer, underscores the broader goals of the UBS-funded project. It aims to build resilience in drought-affected communities like Malkadaka. One such initiative is the introduction of Value-Added Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), where women not only consume nutritious food but also sell surplus and save for the future.

Waqo Nura Galma, the Kinna Extension Officer, highlights the critical role of extension services in guiding Malkadaka farmers on best practices. The Department of Trade, led by Mansur Shaban, facilitates market linkages to prevent losses of farm produce.  Shinda Yussuf, a Habsa farm member and a mother, shares her story. Her shop now features vegetables from the group farm, ensuring a steady supply for Malkadaka residents. She speaks of the positive impact on her family’s diet and income, thanks to the ACF and County Government intervention.

In the face of climate crisis, Malkadaka stands as a testament to the transformative power of sustainable agriculture. Through collaborative efforts, it is possible to not only address environmental challenges but also meet socioeconomic needs and improve nutrition well-being. As the village strides toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals, it serves as a model for resilient and empowered rural communities.