Families benefit from goat restocking programme

More than 140 vulnerable families who lost their livestock to drought in Laikipia North have a reason to smile after receiving five goats each to restart their lives.

They are beneficiaries of a livestock restocking programme spearheaded by Impact Kenya, a nongovernmental organisation.

The initiative is meant to empower the targeted families that have been relying on well-wishers and relief food from the government.

Impact Kenya programme officer Patrick Lelesi said livelihoods of many families in the region were disrupted following the prolonged drought that left thousands of animals dead.

Lelesi announced that they will be giving out 700 goats to the most vulnerable families that have been selected by elders in various community lands in the area.

Area assistant chief Maureen Rachel said the families have suffered a lot since they depend on livestock to educate their children.

Beneficiaries were urged not to sell the goats but allow them to multiply due to availability of pasture and water in the region.

Thousands of animals died due to the prolonged drought that lasted over three years in Northern Kenya.