Turkana on track, says governor Lomorukai in state of the county address

Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has outlined healthcare, water provision and food security as key achievements made by his administration.

He said his administration is firmly on track in addressing long-standing challenges faced by the residents.

“We are working to deliver the county from some of the most critical challenges we have faced for a long period. This will help ensure the livelihoods of our people are improved,” Lomorukai said.

He spoke during his third State of the County Address at the assembly.

The governor praised the assembly for its cooperation, saying support from the MCAs has been instrumental in enabling the executive to implement its development agenda.

Lomorukai highlighted the timely passage of crucial legislation, including the Turkana Biashara Fund Act, the Finance Act, and the 2025 Budget Appropriation Act, which he said have strengthened public finance management and improved resource allocation.

“I commend the entire assembly for standing with us and being committed to addressing issues that directly affect the lives of our people,” he said.

Lomorukai cited major strides in water supply, including the installation of a Reverse Osmosis plant at Kaituko and the expansion of water systems in Kalokol and Lodwar Municipality.

He expressed optimism over the Horn of Africa Groundwater for Resilience Project, which is expected to inject Sh600 million to rehabilitate and expand water infrastructure in more than 11 sites.

The governor also praised the Kenya National Highways Authority for drilling new boreholes that have improved access to clean water in several communities.

On food security, the governor pointed to the Katilu Irrigation Scheme as a model investment that has turned farming into a reliable source of income for many households.

Mechanisation, expanded acreage under irrigation, canal desilting, and the establishment of seed banks have revitalised crop production and boosted food availability across Turkana.

Mass vaccinations, improved disease surveillance and restocking for drought-affected families have also helped protect the pastoral economy.

The governor highlighted the county’s efforts to resettle families displaced by conflict. He cited the Napeitom Integrated Project in Suguta subcounty as a major intervention that has provided housing and essential services to affected households.

He said similar initiatives have supported communities in Nadome, Todonyang, Namoruarengan and Kapetadie, where the county continues to rebuild homes and assist families to return to normalcy.

The governor reported significant progress in healthcare delivery, including increased staffing, the opening and rehabilitation of health facilities, improved ambulance deployment, and more consistent supply of medicines and equipment.

“Our healthcare services are steadily being moved closer to communities as a result of the investments we have made in the sector,” he said.

Lomorukai said ongoing reforms in the education sector have led to higher enrolment and better retention in ECDE centres.

He attributed this to improved teacher welfare through promotions, new recruitments, infrastructure development and renovation of learning facilities.

Lodwar and Kakuma have now achieved municipality status, paving the way for enhanced urban planning.

Town development initiatives in Lokichar, Lowarengak and Kalokol have also contributed to increased revenue collection and the preservation of cultural heritage.