KKCF has recognized that a pivotal component of fostering economic growth in the Kakuma-Kalobeyei area is establishing a regulatory environment conducive to developing businesses within the host community and among refugees in Turkana West sub-county.
Since 2020, IFC has closely collaborated with the Turkana County Government and UNHCR to launch the Biashara Huduma Centre, a comprehensive “one-stop shop” designed to provide a wide range of essential county and national services. This innovative initiative aims to tackle various challenges encountered by local businesses, host communities, refugees, and regulatory bodies, thus facilitating the smooth reception and delivery of crucial services.
Additionally, through synergies with another IFC project (the Kenya Investment Climate Program Phase 3), efforts have been made to establish an Investment Promotion Corporation Bill and Portal to create a more systematic regulatory foundation to attract and protect investments within the county. The two efforts are dedicated to enhancing investment capacity and creating fresh opportunities within Turkana County, thereby significantly contributing to the region’s economic growth and development.
KKCF is offering technical support to the Turkana County Government on operationalization of the Governor’s 9-point development agenda, and eventual implementation of Governor’s priorities 6-9 with specific focus on land use and urban development as development resource., This includes advisory support and capacity building on policy development and strategic planning (Land Use Policy, Waste Management Strategy, Fire Safety Policy, Urban Development Policy and sub-policies, legal drafting, governance and regulatory reforms. KKCF’s technical assistance is alignment with other World Bank Group projects in Turkana County specifically the Kenya Urban Support Program 2.
This component aims to facilitate the entry of larger firms into Kakuma by highlighting and quantifying the business opportunities available in the area. Although KKCF feasibility studies like “Kakuma as a Marketplace,” “Kakuma Energy Study,” and “Kakuma Water Study” have already shed light on the potential business prospects in Kakuma, the context of this region remains unique and unfamiliar to many larger firms.
Recognizing this, IFC is providing critical assistance and support to large firms through advisory services, including conducting scoping missions, conducting comprehensive market studies, and aiding in capacity building to help them navigate and thrive in this distinct environment.
One notable achievement of the project is the signing of an agreement with Goodlife Pharmacy, marking a significant step towards opening and operating the first modern pharmacy in Kakuma town. This development represents a positive stride in improving access to essential healthcare services in the area and enhancing the overall business landscape.
In February 2025, IFC and Equity Bank officially launched a $20 million Risk Sharing Facility (RSF), the first of its kind globally dedicated to advancing financial inclusion for refugees and their host communities. The facility targets 14 of Kenya’s most underserved counties, including Turkana and Garissa, and aims to expand access to finance for individuals and small businesses, particularly those owned and operated by refugees. IFC is assuming 50 percent of the risk exposure, with additional support from the PROSPECTS partnership, which is contributing $4 million to the initiative.
