Lodwar, 20th March 2025 (Governor’s Press Service) – Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has called for the restoration of USAID-funded programmes in Turkana, following aid cuts implemented during the Trump administration in January.
Speaking today at the County Headquarters during a meeting with Marc Dillard, the US Chargé d’Affaires to Kenya, Governor Lomorukai highlighted that the funding cuts have severely affected livelihood activities, particularly in the health, livestock, and water sectors.
The Governor emphasized the significant role of public-private partnerships in Turkana supported by the United States, noting that the reduction in funding has also impacted refugees, leading to protests.
“We have made progress as a county through the support of the United States, particularly in WASH programmes. Our people are already feeling the effects of this reduction, as many were employed in USAID-funded programmes,” said Governor Lomorukai.
He expressed gratitude to the United States for being a key donor, whose support has complemented the County’s devolved functions in Turkana. He explained that Turkana’s vastness and historical marginalization make donor support crucial for supplementing the County Government’s efforts.
Governor Lomorukai also pointed out the adverse effects of climate change on the agriculture and fisheries sectors. He cited rising water levels in Lake Turkana, which have disrupted local schools and the hospitality industry, as evidence of the growing impact of climate change.
Marc Dillard explained that the United States has resumed funding for food support to refugees and critical health programmes. He noted that the U.S. has been supporting refugees in Kakuma and Dadaab for nearly three decades.
The meeting was also attended by Acting County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a, County Executives James Wang’iros (Agriculture) and Roseline Aite (Trade), and Chief Officer for Preventive Health Janerose Tioko.
Also present were Acting LCRH CEO Dr James Kidalio, Director for Resource Mobilization Raphael Logum, and advisors Richard Ekai (Economic) and Ekiru Tulele (Legal).
