Turkana

Turkana County: Overcoming Geographic and Digital Barriers

Turkana County, with the highest poverty rate at 77.9%, presents the most challenging environment for digital inclusion. Vast distances, limited infrastructure, and nomadic lifestyles required innovative approaches. Despite initial low participation rates, DEGESI implemented targeted strategies that showed remarkable progress.

Key Achievements in Turkana

Highest CDC Interest: 37.5% of all CDC applicants (3,933 individuals)

Rapid Growth: From 10 orientation attendees to 210 baseline completions after interventions

Strong County Partnership: Excellent collaboration with county government

Youth Engagement: Overwhelming interest from unemployed youth

Innovative Delivery: Successful mobile and satellite-based training

Local Success Stories

Ekaale’s Fishing Community Network
Ekaale, a 30-year-old from Lake Turkana, used digital skills to transform fishing practices. He created a WhatsApp group connecting 50 fishermen with buyers in Lodwar and Kitale. Using simple smartphones, they share catch information, negotiate prices, and coordinate transportation, increasing their collective income by 40%.

The Turkana Device Repair Pioneers
Three CDCs trained in computer repair established the first device service center in Lodwar. They repair phones damaged by sand and heat, a common problem in the arid region. Their business now trains apprentices and serves as a digital access point for the community.

County-Specific Interventions

Mobile Satellite Training: Units reaching remote areas like Lokichar and Kakuma

Pastoralist Digital Literacy: Training focused on livestock health and market apps

Humanitarian-Digital Bridge: Connecting digital skills with NGO opportunities

Lake Region Focus: Digital tools for fishing communities and lake transport

Challenges & Solutions

Initial Challenge: Only 10 out of 833 CDC applicants attended orientation
Solution Implemented:

County government reinforcement through ward administrators

LOKADO field team deployment to re-engage applicants

  • Flexible scheduling around community events and examinations

  • Transportation support for remote applicants

Other Challenges Overcome:

  • Dust and Heat: Protective cases and cooling solutions for devices

  • Language Barriers: Materials in Turkana language with pictorial guides

  • Nomadic Lifestyle: Mobile training that follows migration patterns

  • Power Limitations: Solar charging stations and power banks