Preceding the drought and the ensuing famine the Turkana lost many animals due to a tick and fly borne disease that devastated their herds. Although no one can replace all that were lost we hope to bring encouragement by purchasing one camel for each of the affected families. Our goal is to buy and deliver 200 camels over the next few months. This will bring some more immediate relief and much needed hope for the future as we continue to implement food security measures for the long term. The average cost for a female camel is $250.
Background –The nomadic Turkana depend on camel and goat milk as a major food source. Since grazing is sparse and scattered throughout this vast district, herds of goats and sheep must be moved frequently. Camels however, need less attention, and can get the most out of local forage from small trees and bushes that the goats and sheep cannot eat. Of course keeping them watered is needed less frequently due to natural storage capacity. Therefore, having a good milk camel nearby is a necessity for successful nomadic living. If possible we hope to bring into the area Somali camels found to be heartier and more resistant to the diseases that affect the local Turkana breed
