This archive report was first published on 28 September 2021.
Abandoning Charcoal Making ¶
Veronica Lomatukae, a mother of two from Lowangila village in Isiolo County, was once a charcoal maker in Ngaremara ward. However, she has abandoned the practice after receiving a Sh20,000 business grant from the Nawiri programme.
The grant, which was part of a Sh27 million cash transfer programme targeting 600 families in Cherab and Ngaremara with malnourished children, has enabled Lomatukae to start a new business selling camel meat, soup, and cereals.
With the help of two other women, Lomatukae operates a general shop and eatery in Tractor town, where they make a profit of at least Sh1,500 daily. The business has not only improved their financial situation but has also enabled them to access nutritious food and health products.
‘I regret being involved in environmental degradation and I have taken it upon myself to educate women on the need to shun charcoal making because it is the cause of the harsh climatic conditions we continue to experience,’ Lomatukae says.
The Nawiri programme, which aims to reverse acute malnutrition rates in Isiolo and Marsabit counties, has also provided regular health and nutrition training to households, including pregnant women, infants, young children, and people with disabilities.
Published on September 28, 2021, by Nation Media Group.
