The seventh edition of the Turkana Tourism and Cultural event concludes today with Governor Lomorukai leading the call for peace and tolerance among the Ateker leaders for improved relations and peaceful coexistence.

In his closing remarks, Governor Lomorukai announced that the event was a big success and promised that the County Government would continue hosting the annual event to foster cross-border collaborations for peace, trade, and general development.

He said that his administration had increased allocation towards development to 44.3% from 20% of the annual county budget in the previous financial years, as a strategic measure to spur development in Turkana and increase the readiness of the county to continue benefitting from such events.

The County boss expressed optimism that the water issue that has been a conflict trigger between the Ateker communities from Uganda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia regions will soon be resolved as President Ruto had promised to support the construction of a big dam in the region.

Noting that the celebration had attracted dignitaries and visitors from far and wide, the Governor urged the participants to take full advantage of the hospitable nature of the Turkana community and enjoy by making a visit to the numerous tourist attraction sites.

The Governor decried the use of violence and involvement in divisive politics.

He called upon leaders to use their positions to foster unity among communities.

Governor Lomorukai revealed Industrial Park in Turkana Central will cost Ksh. 400M. And that the Kenyan President during the first day of the Festiva, had committed to support the project, which will create employment for the youth.

He also used the opportunity to inform the Turkana residents that the Mashujaa Day celebrations next week will take place in Kalokol, Turkana Central.

Governor Lomorukai said the Turkana Central MP and the MCAs in the Wards within the Sub-County will be part of the team hosting the event.

The closing event was also addressed by Deputy Governor Dr John Erus, MPs Emathe Namuar (Turkana Central), Nicholas Ng’ikor (MP Turkana East) and Cecilia Ngitit (Woman Rep), Principal Secretary for Maritime and Shipping Geoffrey Kaituko, Speaker of Turkana County Assembly Christopher Nakuleu and County Commissioner Jacob Ouma.

Members of the County Assembly of Turkana led by Leader of Majority, Stephen Edukon also spoke and called for unity among the county leadership.

Senior County Government officials led by County Secretary Peter Eripete and a host of representatives of development organizations were also present.