Philippine Embassy, UNFPA-Kenya Uplift Drought-Hit Women in Turkana during Women’s Month

NAIROBI 24 March 2025 – The Philippine Embassy in Nairobi and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)-Kenya turned over livelihood equipment to vulnerable women in Lodwar, Turkana County last 20 March 2025.

The donation is part of a USD 50,000 assistance to the Republic of Kenya, to provide sustainable economic opportunities and campaign against gender-based violence (GBV) in drought-affected communities in Kenya.

Vice Consul Alvin Ancheta represented the Embassy at the turn-over ceremony, which was conducted in collaboration with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), the Turkana County Government, and local women's rights organizations.

The project is aimed at ensuring that recipient women in Lodwar, one of the hardest-hit areas by prolonged drought, have access to livelihood that can help them achieve economic independence. Additionally, the program integrates gender-based violence awareness and prevention efforts to address the heightened risks faced by women in crisis-stricken communities.

The project also strengthens multi-sectoral partnerships in addressing gender-based violence, a critical issue affecting women and girls in vulnerable communities. By providing women with financial independence, the program contributes to breaking cycles of poverty and violence, ultimately fostering a safer and more inclusive society.

The initiative aligns with the Philippines' longstanding advocacy for women's empowerment and climate action, women being disproportionately affected by climate change.

The Philippines has a longstanding history of collaboration with UNFPA, tracing back to the pioneering leadership of Rafael Salas, a Filipino, who served as the first Executive Director of UNFPA. This historical partnership continues to thrive, reinforcing shared goals of promoting reproductive health, gender equality, and socio-economic empowerment for women. END

For more information, visit https://ww.nairobipe.dfa.gov.ph  or https://www.facebook.com/PHLinKenya/