May 30, 2025 (Mandera, Kenya): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), with financial support from the Africa Climate Change Fund (ACCF) of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has successfully conducted a monitoring mission for the project “Enhancing Gender Equality in Access to Land Resources for Transformative Climate Change Adaptation in the IGAD Region” from 26th to 30th May 2025 in Mandera County, Kenya.
The monitoring exercise aimed to assess the progress of activity implementation, track the results achieved thus far, and engage with relevant ministries and other key stakeholders to discuss and document lessons learned. It also identified and commended effective approaches to maximise the impact and sustainability of project interventions.
Several monitoring tools were utilised during the exercise, including Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with government officials, civil society organisations (CSOs), and local leaders, as well as Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with project beneficiaries, and documentation of best practices. A total of 30 participants took part in the FGDs and KIIs. Discussions mainly focused on the relevance, efficiency, and sustainability of project interventions and the outputs achieved so far.
It was evident that interventions such as capacity building of stakeholders, development of manuals and advocacy materials on gender-transformative climate change adaptation, and community-led initiatives have significantly contributed to sustainable land management, women’s empowerment, and enhanced climate resilience in communities. The project also increased awareness of the differential impacts of climate change on men and women, particularly in Mandera County, where social norms and customary practices often hinder the achievement of sustainable socio-economic development.
The trainings provided by the project enhanced the knowledge and skills of stakeholders in addressing the root causes of gender inequality and closing the gender gap in planning and decision-making processes on climate change policies and interventions. Stakeholders also praised the community-led initiatives introduced by the project as effective tools for women’s empowerment—particularly through the introduction of climate-smart fodder technologies, awareness creation, and skills development.
Beneficiaries specifically highlighted the relevance of Juncao grass technology in Mandera County as a sustainable solution to fodder shortages, especially during drought periods. They recommended continued community sensitisation, the establishment of market linkages for fodder sellers, and the provision of proper storage facilities for dried grass for use in dry seasons.
The monitoring mission also documented best practices and lessons learned, including:
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The importance of targeted training modules;
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The need to mainstream gender in climate change adaptation and land governance;
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The necessity of sufficient resource allocation for integrated interventions;
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The value of effective community mobilisation and engagement.
Most importantly, the political will, commitment, and ownership demonstrated by the County Government and other stakeholders at all levels were identified as crucial for ensuring the success and sustainability of the project’s interventions.
