Lodwar, 24th March 2025 (Public Communication and Media Relations)

During the celebration of World Water Day at Napuu, the County Government of Turkana launched a newly acquired terrameter valued at Ksh 20 million.

The advanced equipment will enhance hydrogeological surveys, allowing for precise identification of the most viable drilling sites for sustainable water supply.

Additionally, the county has initiated works towards the completion of a new borehole to serve the Narewa-Namariat section of Lodwar Municipality.

Speaking at the launch, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water Services, Patrick Losike Lokaimoe, assured the community that the county was taking deliberate steps to provide a lasting solution to water shortages.

“With this new equipment, we are improving our capacity to conduct precise groundwater surveys, ensuring that every borehole drilled is sustainable. We are also addressing all bottlenecks hindering access to water, and through Turkana Urban Water Company, we will work toward a permanent solution for the people of Napuu, Namariat, Mt. Kenya, IDP, Methewan, Juluok, and Narewa,” said Lokaimoe.

Amid calls for the relocation of individuals who have encroached on the Napuu aquifer, the CECM urged residents to support the county’s water service delivery efforts by consistently paying their water bills.

“Water is a critical resource that requires investment. While the county is making efforts to expand access, sustainability depends on water users meeting their obligation to pay bills. This will ensure continuous service and maintenance of water infrastructure,” he added.

Speaker of the County Assembly, Rt. Hon. Charles Lokioto, echoed this sentiment, affirming the Assembly’s commitment to strengthening water access policies and continuously acquiring modern technology to guide survey and drilling.

Chief Officer for Water Services, Simon Etom, noted that the acquisition of the new equipment will enable the department to conduct surveys independently without relying on external contractors, a move expected to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

“The county now has the technical expertise required to operate the new equipment effectively, ensuring maximum benefits from this investment,” said Etom.

Director of Water Services, Paul Lotum, explained the equipment’s function, stating:

“The machine is used for determining the point of drilling that will give the best yield.”

The machine was put on trial and display at Napuu during the World Water Day event, marking its official launch.

During the celebration, the county also broke ground for the drilling of Borehole Six at Napuu, a project aimed at alleviating the long-standing water crisis in the area.

For years, residents have suffered due to frequent collapses of the primary borehole, pipeline vandalism, and blockages that have disrupted water supply.