The much-anticipated community sensitization program by the Acacia Community Development Group (ACDG), in partnership with National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), was successfully launched today at Bar-Kowino in Siaya County.
The initiative, held at Bar-Kowino Chief’s camp during a vibrant community Baraza, aims to equip local residents with essential knowledge on climate change impacts and practical guidelines for safe, resilient living. By empowering communities with this information, the program seeks to drive economic improvement through sustainable practices, aligning with broader efforts to build climate-resilient livelihoods in the region.
The session featured an induction on village administrative structures and governance, marking a key step in strengthening grassroots participation in local development. Organizers highlighted the event’s focus on fostering informed decision-making to harness climate-smart opportunities for better economic outcomes, such as adopting adaptive agriculture, resource conservation, and livelihood diversification amid Siaya’s vulnerability to erratic rainfall, droughts, and other climate challenges.
In a statement afterwards , representatives from Acacia Community Development Group decried that formal partnership with the county government on village council development remains elusive. While acknowledging the county’s constitutional mandate to support village-level initiatives, the group emphasized that active engagement from the county is awaited to advance this specific effort.
“It’s surprising that the County Government of Kilifi can ask to formalize a working arrangement while our homeland of Siaya stands aloof and undecided on the commitment to advance climate change initiatives,” said Dr. David Oremo the ACDG program coordinator.
The program concluded with successful completion of the governance induction and sincere appreciation extended to the Office of the Assistant Chief for Bar-Kowino Sub-Location for their pivotal role in facilitating the meeting.
ACDG now urges the Siaya County Government to formalize its commitment and collaborate on building strong village councils. The group invites county officials to express interest and partner in this vital work, which complements existing county frameworks like the Siaya County Climate Change Action Plan (2023-2028) and ongoing community-driven resilience efforts.
This rollout underscores growing momentum for locally led climate action in Siaya, where grassroots organizations like ACDG are advancing advocacy for social justice, equity, and sustainable development through inclusive dialogue and evidence-based reforms. Communities in Bar-Kowino and beyond stand to gain from enhanced awareness and tools to thrive economically while adapting to a changing climate.
