Budget: Northern Kenya to gain from equalization fund.

Northern Kenya is among the winners of this years’ budget. An equalization fund for the region has been extended, and new developments are expected to take place in the region. Even though the region sits on vast natural resources, it remains the poorest part of Kenya. Oil was discovered in Turkana early last year, but full exploitation will only be realized in the next three years or so. Similarly, a Chinese company will be setting up a solar power plant in Garissa, one of the largest in Africa.
Equally, tourism in Samburu and neighboring parts will be expected to bring more revenue to the northern region. Additionally, Blue Seas Technologies is setting up a wind farm in the Turkana/ Marsabit region. However, livestock farming is still underdeveloped, as is agriculture in general. A one million irrigation scheme initiated by the government is likely to cover a large acreage in the region. However, insecurity remains by far the most inhibiting factor to the progress in the region, with cattle rustling, clan fighting, and terrorism being cited as some of the most threatening challenges.

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