By Neema Mujesia,
“The power of communities is not in numbers alone, but in shared purpose.”
Across Kenya, digital transformation is reshaping livelihoods, but nowhere is this more evident than in Isiolo County, where resilience, cooperation, and innovation are redefining what community-led development can achieve.
Isiolo has long been celebrated for its cultural diversity, strategic location, and strong community ties. Traditionally pastoral, the county has gradually embraced technology as a tool for inclusion and economic empowerment. Over the years, the expansion of mobile connectivity, digital financial services, and community-based cooperatives has opened doors to new opportunities, especially for youth, women, and small-scale entrepreneurs.
Despite infrastructural and security challenges, Isiolo’s communities have shown remarkable determination to adapt, learn, and grow in the digital age.
Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) and local cooperatives have long been pillars of social and economic empowerment, enabling members to save, invest, and grow small businesses while strengthening community bonds.
This progress was evident during our recent engagement in Isiolo on 20th January 2025, where stakeholders and community members came together to reflect on challenges, share experiences, and explore practical digital solutions to strengthen VSLAs and cooperatives.
Strengthening Connectivity Through Research and Collaboration
Brian Ekisa, ICT Officer at the Ministry of ICT Research, emphasized the government’s commitment to evidence-based planning: “The Ministry continuously conducts research to identify areas that require improved connectivity, while factoring in security and available resources.”
He highlighted that digital access depends on coordinated structures, such as reliable electricity, mobile devices, and secure infrastructure, requiring collaboration between the Ministry of ICT and the Ministry of Energy. His message to the community was clear and hopeful: “Do not lose hope, there is hope.”
Cooperatives as Engines of Development
Kabale Jimale, County Director of Trade in Isiolo, underscored the importance of unity: “Cooperation at the county level will enable cooperatives to benefit fully from emerging digital opportunities.”
Similarly, Mansur Shaban, Director of Industrialization and County Director in Isiolo, noted that cooperatives play a central role in industrial and economic growth, particularly when integrated with digital systems.
Said Roba from C.G.I Cooperative noted a significant shift: ” County VSLAs are channeling substantial funds through digital systems. As more people conduct transactions online, it is crucial to implement effective security measures.”
The EDACR Approach: Building Digital Livelihoods
Mwendwa Kivuva, Operations Manager at KICTANet, introduced the EDACR (Economic Development and Community Resilience) Approach, which focuses on sustainable, community-driven digital growth.
Key Pillars of the EDACR Approach
1. Digital Employability & Skills
Youth and community members are equipped with practical digital skills to compete in both local and global markets. Emphasis is placed on sustainable employment in: AgTech, IT Support, Creative Industries.
Youth and community members are equipped with practical digital skills to compete in both local and global markets. Emphasis is placed on sustainable employment in: AgTech, IT Support, Creative Industries.
2. The Cascade Model (CDC → CDE)
Community Digital Champions (CDCs) are trained and empowered to pass knowledge within their communities. Outstanding performers advance into Community Digital Entrepreneurs (CDEs), creating a self-sustaining ecosystem of local tech and business leaders. “This project will strengthen VSLAs and cooperatives, transforming them into one-stop hubs for digital, financial, and agribusiness services to improve livelihoods and community resilience,” said Kivuva.
Community Digital Champions (CDCs) are trained and empowered to pass knowledge within their communities. Outstanding performers advance into Community Digital Entrepreneurs (CDEs), creating a self-sustaining ecosystem of local tech and business leaders. “This project will strengthen VSLAs and cooperatives, transforming them into one-stop hubs for digital, financial, and agribusiness services to improve livelihoods and community resilience,” said Kivuva.
Challenges Facing Cooperatives and VSLAs
Despite progress, several challenges persist:
1. Devolution of Cooperatives
The devolution process disrupted cooperative registration, resulting in significant backlogs and delayed services.
2. Loan Management Issues
Loan defaults and misuse remain a concern. The proposed way forward includes revisiting and rectifying Sheria (legal frameworks) governing cooperative lending to ensure accountability and sustainability.
3. Rising Online Fraud
As digital transactions increase, so do risks. Communities reported:
- Fraudulent online courses where payment is made but education is never delivered.
- Online shopping scams involving fake sellers
- Fraudulent messages and phishing attempts targeting cooperative members
These risks highlight the urgent need for digital literacy, consumer awareness, and strong cybersecurity measures. Isiolo’s journey shows that digital transformation is not just about technology; it is about people, trust, and collaboration. By strengthening cooperatives, investing in digital skills, improving infrastructure, and safeguarding online transactions, the county can unlock inclusive and sustainable growth.
With continued partnership between government, civil society, and local communities, Isiolo is not just catching up; it is setting an example of how shared purpose can power digital progress.