The recent Inception Workshop for the PALM-TREEs project in Turkana, held on April 22-27 2024 marked a significant step forward in our commitment to enhancing climate resilience in the region. This gathering brought together stakeholders, researchers, and community leaders to share insights and strategies for addressing the unique challenges faced by pastoral communities.

A key takeaway from the workshop was the recognition that wind’s impact is more critical than heat in influencing local climate conditions. Additionally, participants noted the recent subdivision of Turkana West into two sub-counties, necessitating updated engagement approaches.

Dr. Ellen Dyer, Co-Principal Investigator of the project, emphasized the importance of actionable data, stating that by repackaging Early Warning Information, we can ensure it is not just data but a tool for empowerment within pastoral communities. This tailored approach will empower local populations with the knowledge they need to respond effectively to climate extremes.

The workshop successfully garnered buy-in from stakeholders, enabling the project to move forward with a shared understanding of its goals and objectives. Participants left with a clear sense of their roles, fostering a collaborative environment essential for the project’s success.

Alice Odingo, another key researcher, noted that engaging local leaders early in the process is crucial. Their involvement fosters trust and encourages community participation, which is vital for the success of our surveys and initiatives.

Several lessons emerged during the discussions, including the importance of identifying potential risks that enumerators might face during data collection, such as flooding and security threats. Early engagement with local chiefs and elders was also emphasized as vital for ensuring survey participation and building trust within communities.

Looking ahead, the project team will focus on distributing iButtons, essential for data collection, alongside the survey questionnaires. Plans are in place to test the survey tool in Kitui and conduct baseline surveys across both counties.

The Inception Workshop laid a strong foundation for the PALM-TREEs project, fostering valuable insights that will guide our efforts in Turkana. With a commitment to collaboration and community engagement, we are poised to make a significant impact in building resilience against climate extremes. We look forward to sharing further updates and progress with all stakeholders involved.