Research Dialogues Set the Pace for Inclusive Development in Tana River County
The National Council for Population and Development (NCPD) concluded a high-level Research Dialogue in Tana River County, bringing together county leadership, national government agencies, development partners, religious leaders, youth and elders to chart inclusive, climate-resilient and food-secure development pathways for the region.
Speaking during the dialogueS, NCPD Board Chairman Hon. Ali Wario, CBS, underscored the strategic importance of Tana River County to Kenya’s food security and sustainable development agenda.
“As we gather here in Tana River County, we are reminded that this region embodies both the promise and the challenges of sustainable development in Kenya. Blessed with the vast Tana Delta, the County has immense potential to feed millions, yet it continues to bear the brunt of floods, droughts, displacement and food insecurity driven by climate change and population pressures,” said Hon. Wario.
Residents of Tana River spoke candidly during the dialogue, highlighting opportunities in agriculture alongside persistent challenges including recurrent flooding, climate variability, community conflicts and malnutrition. Participants emphasized the need for integrated solutions such as reforestation, improved water infrastructure, flood mitigation measures and climate-smart agriculture.
Hon. Wario noted that Kenya’s rapidly growing population continues to exert pressure on food systems and natural resources, calling for a coordinated response that links population management, agricultural innovation and sustainable resource use.
“Population trends directly influence food security. As our numbers increase, so does demand for food, water and services. We must empower women and youth through education, reproductive health services and access to modern, climate-smart farming technologies,” he added.
The dialogue also examined the impact of climate change on livelihoods in semi-arid regions such as Tana River, where communities frequently travel long distances in search of water during prolonged dry spells. Scientific projections indicate rising temperatures and increased climate variability further threaten agricultural productivity and well-being.
NCPD Director General Dr. Mohamed Sheikh emphasized the Council’s commitment to translating dialogue outcomes into action.
“NCPD will synthesize the insights from this dialogue into a comprehensive policy report to inform national and county decision-makers. Our goal is to ensure evidence-based interventions that strengthen climate resilience, enhance food security and improve the quality of life for communities in Tana River County,” Dr. Sheikh said.
The Research Dialogue aligns with national priorities including the Population Policy for National Development, the National Adaptation Plan (2015–2030), the National Food and Nutrition Security Policy and the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
NCPD reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration with county governments, communities and partners to drive inclusive, sustainable development and secure a prosperous future for Tana River County and Kenya at large.
