Frontiers Children Development Organization (FCDO), is a local Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) dedicated to improving the well-being of deprived, excluded, and vulnerable (DEV) children in Turkana County, Kenya. Situated in the Arid and Semi-Arid Areas (ASALs) of the country, Turkana County faces numerous challenges related to climate, economy, and poverty.
Climate: FCDO operates in an area characterized by a hot and dry climate, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 41°C and a mean temperature of 30.5°C. The region experiences erratic and unreliable bimodal rainfall, occurring from April to July (long rains) and September to November (short rains). Rainfall amounts vary greatly, with spatial and temporal variations ranging from 52mm to 480mm, and a long-term average of 200mm. These climatic conditions pose significant challenges to agricultural productivity and livelihood sustainability in the area.
Economy: The economy of Turkana County is primarily driven by pastoralism, with 60% of the population engaged in livestock rearing. Additionally, 20% practice agro-pastoralism, 12% are involved in fishing activities, while the remaining 8% participate in small-scale businesses and casual jobs in urban areas. The heavy reliance on traditional livelihoods, coupled with the challenges posed by the harsh climate, makes the population particularly vulnerable to economic shocks and fluctuations.
Poverty Level: Despite its rich cultural heritage and natural resources, Turkana County grapples with high levels of poverty, with 79.4% of the population living below the poverty line. The combination of limited economic opportunities, harsh climatic conditions, and inadequate access to essential services exacerbates the vulnerability of children and families in the region, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions to address poverty and improve livelihoods.
In this context, FCDO's mission to undertake holistic transformational development aligns with the pressing needs of the community, aiming to enhance the health, education, skills, and safety of underprivileged children and young adults in Turkana County. Through strategic interventions and partnerships, FCDO seeks to empower communities, build resilience, and create sustainable pathways out of poverty for future generations.
