Turkana: The County Government of Turkana, in collaboration with Solidaridad, a locally based NGO, has embarked on a mission to empower local communities by training them to identify and report gender issues to the relevant authorities for immediate action.

According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative was launched during an inaugural training session where Trizah Amoni, the Chief Officer for Energy, Petroleum, and Mining, emphasized the partnership’s aim to educate individuals in the mining sector to champion gender concerns. The training will encompass the entire artisanal mining value chain, from extraction and cooperative formation to marketing.

The training curriculum is designed to raise awareness about responsible mining practices and includes gender-sensitive psychosocial support, referral pathways for gender-related issues, and the supply and use of safety equipment. It also covers first aid practices for both men and women. Amoni highlighted the county government’s commitment to supporting artisanal miners in overcoming sector challenges.

The partnership also focuses on economic empowerment models, such as forming Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) for women. Director of Mining Merimug Eloto encouraged miners to work closely with the county government to benefit from additional initiatives.

The event was attended by representatives from Solidaridad, including Rita Atuti and project officer Augustine Masiga, along with Gender Champions from seven mining market cooperatives.