Kalokol, March 22 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

The County Government of Turkana, through the Department of Water Services, has taken a step towards addressing the water access challenges in Kalokol by handing over the site for the construction of a water supply system to a contractor at Kadokorinyang’.

Describing the move as a deliberate effort to alleviate water access challenges facing the residents, Chief Officer for Water Services, David Maraka, confirmed the allocation of Ksh 40 million for the project so as to deliver a high-yielding borehole, two elevated steel tanks, and up to 10 kilometers of pipeline connections.

“It is our hope that before the end of the current 2023-2024 financial year, the contractor will conclude the project as agreed, and Kalokol will have access to clean and safe freshwater for the first time,” Chief Officer Maraka stated.

During the site handing over, Director for Water Services Engineer Paul Lotum explained that the site selection was based on a geophysical survey indicating the possibility of non-saline aquifers in the area.

Engineer Lotum noted that the challenge of water salinity had hampered previous efforts of the County Governments in providing safe and clean water to the residents.

Engineer Lotum further emphasized that the contract includes borehole protection works to mitigate potential damage from flooding in the Nakiria river basin.

While highlighting the project’s significance in keeping pace with Kalokol’s population growth, Engineer Lotum called on residents of the area to give the contractor all the support required to complete the works.

Kalokol is best known for fish value chain whose growth has been attributed to improved fish processing and packaging plants and, the improved road network connectivity.

As the world commemorated Water Day 2024, Engineer Lotum assured continuous project monitoring to ensure adherence to standards throughout the implementation period.

The project received a boost after locals of the area pledged their support hoping to benefit directly from its implementation.

“I believe that this is a project that will transform our lives, make it easier for our children to attend school in good time and unlock the potential of Kalokol town”, Jeremiah Ekaru, a resident said.

The event was witnessed by Vinson Ekai (Sub County Water Officer), James Loseny (Kalokol Ward Administrator), and Hon. Michael Apem (MCA Kalokol), alongside local community members and other leaders.