In northern Kenya, every time there is a drought there are thousands of domestic animals that end up in the same way as this unfortunate cow above.
For this reason there is a critical need for developing markets so that communities can sell their livestock before they loose it all. In addition, in order for pastoral families to keep ‘savings’ from which to live off during difficult times they need somewhere to store their money. Sadly the banks give very little interest on savings, whereas breeding livestock gives a very good ‘interest rate’ but of course not during times of drought when this interest is most needed!
In order to address this situation, the Trust is encouraging the development of alternative revenue streams, building capacity for improved natural resource management, and diversifying livestock types such as the keeping of camels, which are browsers with low impact on the environment, and can go many days without water.
But most importantly the Milgis Trust must find the funds and support to create a local Veterinary Unit for the area. Not only would this benefit the environment and the wildlife, but it will ease the struggle of the people to sustain their livelihood through breeding healthy quality stock.