Lokichar, 16th October 2024 (Governor’s Press) – Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has urged members of kraals and local communities to provide information about gangs behind intra-community attacks in Loima and Turkana South Sub-counties.

Speaking today in Lokichar during a community peace meeting, Governor Lomorukai expressed concern that the ongoing conflicts had resulted in lawlessness, loss of lives and was driving residents into abject poverty due to the theft of livestock.

He emphasized the importance of keeping politics out of peace initiatives, as peace was essential to the livelihoods of the community. The Governor stated that the meeting in Lokichar was a continuation of previous discussions aimed at finding long-term solutions to inter-community conflicts.

“Peace is vital for the livelihoods and well-being of the Turkana people. This gathering is focused on addressing the challenges we face as residents of Turkana,” he stated.

The meeting brought together elected leaders, kraal representatives, the council of elders, clergy, and representatives of the Nyang’atom community of Ethiopia.

Governor Lomorukai expressed optimism that lasting solutions will be achieved through dialogue and reminded attendees that the responsibility to find solutions lies with the community. He assured the elders that the county leadership is committed to addressing their concerns and emphasized that the issues at stake were much larger than individual ambitions.

The Governor echoed the elders’ calls for the arrest and prosecution of criminals involved in cattle rustling. He urged them to reject politicians and leaders who use conflict to advance their political careers.

Regarding community land management, Governor Lomorukai said the County Government was developing a spatial plan that would guide the allocation of title deeds.

County Secretary and Head of Public Service Peter Eripete urged elders to address internal conflicts, as these breed division within the community.

Chief Officer in the Office of the Governor Etelej Korea, Chief of Staff Peter Loyapan, Administration Director Wiljustus Lopeyok and Subcounty Administrators led by Simon Koloi (Turkana South) were among County Government officials accompanying the Governor.

A host of Members of County Assembly, led by Lokichar MCA Samuel Lomodo, were also in attendance.