Lodwar, September 30, 2024 (Governor’s Press Service): Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has commended the REACH Programme for its contributions in tackling water insecurity and climate change in Turkana County.
Speaking during a close-out workshop organized by the REACH Programme in Lodwar today, the Governor emphasized the significance of research-driven solutions in ensuring the sustainable management of water resources.
In his address, Governor Lomorukai highlighted the critical role played by researchers from the REACH Programme in addressing the water challenges facing the region.
He acknowledged the scholarly inputs of Prof. Daniel Olago from the University of Nairobi and Prof. Rob Hope from Oxford University, whose work on the Lodwar alluvial aquifer, has provided valuable insights into Turkana’s groundwater systems. Lodwar alluvial aquifer includes the Napuu aquifer.
“Climate change has severely impacted Turkana County, destabilizing our ecosystems and disrupting our development agenda,” said Governor Lomorukai.
“However, through partnerships with institutions like the REACH Programme, we are making strides towards building resilience and securing our water future.”
Governor Lomorukai emphasized that data from monitoring wells established at the Lodwar alluvial aquifer, will enable evidence-based decision-making, helping optimize water usage and ensure the long-term sustainability of the aquifer.
The Governor also praised the REACH Programme for developing an Environmental Monitoring Plan, the first comprehensive analysis of Lodwar’s groundwater system. The plan is set to improve water planning, project implementation, and the distribution of safe water to residents of Lodwar Municipality.
Our partnerships are key to ensuring that Turkana remains resilient in the face climate risks,” he noted. “The FLLOCA funding we have secured will enhance the adaptive capacity of our communities, and we are committed to working with our partners to scale up these efforts.”
Deputy Governor Dr John Erus underscored the importance of collaboration and acknowledged the support from UNICEF in developing a Water Masterplan for Turkana County.
The workshop brought together experts, researchers, and stakeholders from across the region, who discussed strategies for improving water resource management in Turkana amid the growing challenges posed by climate change.
Country Director, REACH Kenya Programme Prof. Olago Daniel noted that discussions would focus on how to sustain and scale up the progress made so far. He further announced that other counties in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) had shown interest in replicating the programme to address their own water challenges.
University of Nairobi Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, Innovation and Enterprise, Prof. Francis Mulaa; Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, Prof. Leonidah Kerubo and Director, REACH Programme Prof. Hope Rob were part of the workshop.
County Executive for Water Services Patrick Losike, Chief Officer for Water Simon Etom, Chief of Staff Peter Loyapan were among Senior County Government officials present in the workshop.
