Lodwar, 16th December 2024 (Governor’s Press Service) – Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has urged the Geothermal Development Company Limited (GDC) to address employment disparities and respect territorial boundaries in their operational areas.
“As residents of this county, we request a fair share of employment and business opportunities, especially since Silale is deep within Turkana. It is unfair that the few employed residents are mostly in lower-level positions,” said Governor Lomorukai.
The Governor emphasised that the company should ensure equal business opportunities and resource allocation for all Silale, Moru Angikokolak communities and other areas in Suguta Sub-County where GDC operates.
Speaking today at the County Headquarters, during a meeting with a team from GDC, led by its Managing Director Paul Ngugi, the Governor reaffirmed that the County Government would advocate for equitable representation, meaningful Community Social Responsibility (CSR), and the inclusion of Turkana residents in business opportunities offered by the Geothermal Development Company.
He described the visit as a positive gesture and assured that it marks the beginning of further discussions aimed at formalizing collaborative efforts.
In response, Mr. Ngugi emphasized that GDC’s primary focus is to accelerate the development of geothermal resources in identified high-potential areas. He pledged continued engagement with the County Government to streamline operations.
The proposed agreement aims to promote the utilization of geothermal energy, establish Industrial Parks, and attract potential investors to Turkana County’s geothermal sector.
County Executive for Roads Benson Lokwang cautioned against renaming exploration areas, warning that such actions could fuel conflict.
County Executives Wiljustus Lopeyok (Education), Roseline Aite (Trade), and Leah Audan (Tourism) as well as Deputy County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a, County Attorney Ruth Emanikor, and Deputy County Director for Resource Mobilization Mike Aupe were present.
