Kakuma, 27th May 2024(Governor’s Press Service)
Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai today attended the launch of the Inclusive Refugee Response Program in Kakuma, Turkana West Sub-county, where Danish Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy, Dan Jannik Jørgensen, was the Chief Guest.
In his remarks, the Governor stated that the programme will boost ongoing efforts by the County Government to deliver critical services to both refugees and the host community, in line with the Kenya Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (KISEDP II).
“The programme aligns with the Refugees Act 2021, which provides a legal foundation for refugees in Kenya to achieve greater self-reliance among refugees. It also empowers local authorities like ours to enhance the delivery of essential services to all community members, fostering a more inclusive society,” said Governor Lomorukai.
He acknowledged existing gaps in the healthcare system despite investments by the government and appreciated the Danish government’s support in improving primary healthcare.
Governor Lomorukai reiterated that collaboration is instrumental in enhancing access to quality and affordable healthcare in the county.
He pointed out that, “The integration of refugee and local communities funding through partnerships with organizations like Amref, which is funded by DANIDA have already commenced, with inception meetings already concluded. These steps are vital in ensuring that our collaborative efforts are sustained and effective.”
Jannik Jørgensen announced that Denmark and other philanthropic organizations have joined hands to support the implementation of the Ushirika Plan at a cost of $70 million over three years.
He lauded the National Government and Turkana County Government for their efforts in hosting and promoting policies that support refugee inclusion.
“We welcome the government’s progressive approach and the new Ushirika Plan. This, we believe, is a matter that should be replicated in other refugee-hosting areas,” he concluded.
UNHCR Country Representative Caroline Van Buren said that public-private partnerships focusing on inclusion are vital for sustainable development. She noted that the programme will facilitate refugee inclusion and leverage their potential for local economic growth.
Senior officials from the county executive were Dr John Erus (Deputy Governor), Peter Eripete (County Secretary), County Executives Dr. Iris Mariao (Health), James Wangiros (Public Service), Losike Lokaimoe (Water), Peter Akono (Lands) and Erukudi David (Trade), Deputy County Secretaries Dr. Albert Gamoe and Joseph Nyang’a, Chief Officers Cathra Abdi (Preventive and Promotive) and Dr. Gilcrhrist Lokoel (Medical Services), Chief of Staff Peter Loyapan as well as Governor’s Advisors Peter Lolem and Festus Imuton.
The County Assembly was represented by House Speaker Christopher Nakuleu as well as MCAs Eliud Emoni (Kakuma) and Julius Apuron (Kalobeyei).
Heads of philanthropic foundations (LEG5O, GRUNDFOS and MFA) and representatives from the national government were also present.R24
