Ebissa Community Empowerment (ECO-E) is a community driven organization dedicated to fostering sustainable development in Marsabit County, Kenya.

Marsabit County, located in northern Kenya which  comprises of  four administrative sub-counties; Saku, Laisamis, North Horr, and Moyale; further divided into 20 wards, locations, and villages. The county experiences a tropical climate with sporadic rainfall and extreme temperatures, making it highly vulnerable and prone to drought.

With an estimated population of 527,000 as of November 2024, Marsabit has a young demographic, with a median age of 14 and 86% of its population classified as youth. However, economic and social challenges persist, with a poverty rate of 66.1% (approximately 317,000 people) and a food poverty rate of 54.4% (261,000 people). Additionally, household food security is fragile, with 76.9% relying on market purchases, while less than 6.9% producing their own food.

Limited access to education is another major issue, as most schools are located several kilometres apart and the county lacks institutions of higher learning including colleges or universities.

Recognizing these pressing challenges, ECO-E was founded to drive sustainable development, food security, and digital literacy in Marsabit. The founders, born and raised in the challenging and economically disadvantaged Marsabit County, have been longstanding advocates for job creation and community empowerment. The commitment to fostering long term solutions for Marsabit’s development led to the launch of a community farming support program within Saku Constituency in Qilta, Sagante, Dirib Kombo, and Jaldesa, benefiting vulnerable households’, especially persons with disabilities and single parent families.

To further empower youth, ECO-E introduced a digital literacy program, equipping them with essential technological skills. A resource centre was established, offering structured computer training to 40+ youth monthly, providing them with critical competencies for the modern job market.

ECO-E was formally established to expand these initiatives through strategic partnerships and community engagement. We are committed to transforming lives, uplifting households, and building long term solutions in the region.

ECO-E is more than an organization; it is a movement for change. By investing in agriculture, digital skills, clean water, and education, we are breaking the cycle of poverty, creating sustainablelivelihoods, and empowering communities for generations to come.

In the grand scheme, ECO-E is firmly anticipatory of a greener, food secure, economically stable, and youthfully empowered Marsabit.