Lodwar, October 9, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

Turkana County Government hosted a delegation from the Kenyan High Commission to Uganda to lay the groundwork for the upcoming Lokiriama peace accord and strengthen cross-border relations.

The Kenya High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Joash Maangi, and his delegation were taken on a familiarization tour of border posts, points of entry, and exit between Karamoja, Pokot, and Turkana. The visit aimed to foster better understanding and coordination between the two governments on cross-border interventions and sustainable peacebuilding initiatives.

During the meeting, Turkana County Secretary Peter Eripete emphasized the importance of transforming cross-border relations through alternative livelihoods in agriculture, education, and sports to promote resilience and peace. “The county exchanged mechanized schemes and development frameworks with the Ugandan government, which provides a roadmap for long-term socio-economic integration and community stability,” Eripete stated.

Ambassador Maangi stressed the need for improved infrastructure, such as road networks along borderlines, to enhance the integration of people through cultural diplomacy and business practices. “We need clear mechanisms to develop infrastructure like road networks alone border lines to enhance the integration of people through cultural diplomacy and business practices,” he said.

He also called for stricter measures to address firearms possession, gang-related crimes, and cattle rustling in the region, which have been major contributors to conflict. “We are strengthening social protection aspects to prevent violation of human rights provision,” Maangi added.

Turkana County Commissioner Julius Kavita highlighted the positive impact of ongoing local peace engagements and Kraals meetings in improving relationships between conflicting communities. “Steering income-generating activities will enhance market linkages to promote sustainability,” he said.

The peace event was also attended by Albert Gamoe (Deputy County Secretary), Etelej Korea (CCO Office of the Governor), Richard Ekai (Economic Advisor), Ekiru Tulele (Legal Advisor), Lawrence Lopayo (Lokiriama MCA), Titus Lokorikeju (Director Peace), Geoffrey Apedor (Lokiriama Subcounty Administrator), Apenyu Imana (Loima Subcounty Administrator).