The AGCO Agriculture Foundation (AAF) has announced the second phase of a US$125,000 project partnership with the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) to respond to climate change and food insecurity in Dadaab Refugee Complex
Funded by the AAF, the first phase of the project has focused on meeting agricultural and nutritional demands of refugees and host communities through the establishment of a mechanised farm for pivot-irrigation and crop production.
Metti Richenhagen, director, AGCO Agriculture Foundation, said, “Climate change is a serious threat to the livelihood and food security of many marginalised farming communities. The impact reported from the initial phase of our project in Dadaab Refugee Complex has propelled us to expand the project deliverables and continue this strategic partnership with the KRCS. This project demonstrates our commitment to address climate change and help farmers in the Dadaab camp and host community improve their soil health and build resilient food systems.”
The second phase of the project will support 6,000 beneficiaries in the Ifo 2 refugee camp and the host community. The goal is to promote climate-smart agriculture and soil fertility management practices, strengthen farmers’ skills in modern irrigation and mechanized agriculture, and create employment opportunities for vulnerable communities.
The KRCS will help farmers establish and manage their farms as well as connect them with local markets. The vegetable crops, lentils and leguminous grass that will be grown during this project phase will support the livelihoods of local farmers and their families.
The project is also supported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which maintains the water infrastructure serving the pivot farm and provides logistical support. The Kenya County Government of Garissa donated the parcel of land for the project and helps identify vulnerable community members who can benefit the most from the program.
Dr Asha Mohammed, secretary general, Kenya Red Cross Society, commented, “The AAF’s strong partnership and funding has enabled us to advance our work towards climate change adaptation and food security for the Dadaab refugees and host community. This second phase of this project is the right next step to ensuring access to nutrition and improving the livelihoods of refugees and their host community.”
