Lodwar, November 15th 2024 (Governor’s Press Service)- Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai today hosted the Implementation Support Mission for the East African Regional Transport, Trade, and Development Facilitation Project (EARTTDFP) at the County headquarters in Lodwar.

During the meeting, the Governor was updated on the progress of the projects, which are set to conclude by the end of next month.

In his remarks, Governor Lomorukai praised the World Bank for funding the initiative and underscored the impact of improved road infrastructure, which enhanced accessibility and boosted trade in the region.

 He urged the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) to address damage in certain sections of the roads as they prepare for the official project handover, scheduled for January next year.

He informed the team of concerns by residents on a bypass in Kakuma which was yet to be constructed and called for the fulfilment of the Bill of Quantities of the project.

Governor Lomorukai promised to initiate dialogue with his government officials from South Sudan to expedite the completion of the remaining 11 kilometres of road from Nadapal to Nakodok.

He expressed concerns with Turkana County’s exclusion from the second phase of the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Program (KISP), due to World Bank requirements stipulating that projects be implemented on public land. He assured the County Government was ready to engage with the World Bank to ensure Turkana residents benefit from KISP programmes.

On his part, Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus emphasised the County Government’s commitment to ensuring that the projects, once handed over, are effectively utilized to achieve their intended goals.

Head of the visiting delegation James Theuri provided an overview of the development projects funded by the World Bank and implemented by KENHA. He stated that the roads and fibre optic cables between Eldoret and Nadapal have significantly improved transport and network connectivity.

The delegation also included representatives from the World Bank, KENHA, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and the Ministry of Transport and Public Works. Deputy County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a, along with County Chief Officers Mark Achilla (Roads) and Dr. Gilchrist Lokoel (Livestock), were also in attendance.