Departments within the County Government of Turkana have today appeared before several Senate Committees in the ongoing sessions currently underway in Turkana under the “Senate Mashinani” Program.

The Lands, Environment and Natural Resources Committee chaired by the Senator for Nyandarua County, John Methu, was the first to receive a combined team of County Executives for Lands and Physical Planning, Peter Akono, and that of Environment Dr. Iris Mariao on Tuesday morning session held at the Chambers of Turkana County Assembly.

During the engagement, land issues relating to titling, compensation, and ownership were discussed. The need to conserve the abundant natural resources available in Turkana also formed part of the engagement.

CECM Akono appraised the Senate Committee on acknowledging the efforts of the County Government towards transforming the land ownership system in Turkana, and the integration of public views on the proposed County Spatial Plan (2023-2033).

On his part, CECM Mariao briefed the Committee on the institution of the community-led climate change action, and the structures put in place to ensure the sustainability of the same across Turkana.

With a joint call for funding for the lands, environment, and climate change activities, the two County Executives separately asked the Methu-led Committee to create an enabling environment for community sensitization.

The Committee’s Chair, Senator Methu, acknowledged the need for additional funding and promised to reach out to government agencies responsible for land registration and environmental conservation.

Chief Officers Leah Losiru (Lands and Physical Planning), Cathra Abdi (Municipality and Urban Areas Management), Benjamin Tukei (Manager, Lodwar Municipality), and representatives of the State Department of Lands were also present during the engagement.