Kakuma – 20th March 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
County Government, through the Directorate of Environment, has convened a stakeholder meeting to validate a comprehensive action plan to address environmental degradation in Turkana West Sub-County.
The meeting, supported by VNG International, brought together key environmental stakeholders in the sub-county to refine strategies to curb environmental degradation. The degradation has been linked to need for energy by the host community and refugees, particularly in Kakuma and Kalobeyei settlements.
Director of Environment, Phoebe Ekali, said that Environment Action Plan sought to promote climate smart practices, enhances reforestation efforts and strengthens policy frameworks for environmental conservation.
“Strengthening collaborative efforts to restore degraded ecosystems and ensure sustainable livelihoods for communities in Turkana West,” said Director Phoebe.
Start with-Stakeholders discussed strategies to combat degradation which includes; restoration of the degraded environment by planting trees while enhancing tree cover, establish sustainable waste management systems, biodiversity conservation and protection of fragile ecosystems. It also includes promoting alternative clean cooking energy sources to reduce dependency on firewood and charcoal.
The validated Environment Action Plan aligns with the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) and its goals for sustainable development and climate resilience. It serves as a roadmap for coordinated interventions to mitigate environmental challenges and support long term ecological balance in Turkana West.
Others in attendance were Acting Director for Natural Resources – Pauline Pusiye, Michael Aupe – Deputy Director for Resource Mobilization, Kakuma Municipality Manager – Peter Emuria, Kakuma municipality Deputy manager – Halima Duba, other county officials and representatives from UNHCR, BOMA, State Department of Refugees Services, National Environment ma gent Authority, Peace Winds Japan, Kenya Film Aid, LOKADO, SAPCONE, Community-based Organizations.
