Lodwar, April 9, 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

Turkana County Government, in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), hosted a three-day workshop on land use policy aimed at knowledge sharing and building capacity of key stakeholders in land management.

The taskforce made up of county Government and IFC officials also proposed strategies for sustainable land use for adoption by the County.

County Chief Officer for Lands, Peter Lomorukai, emphasized the importance of adopting sustainable practices that boost agricultural productivity while preserving natural resources. He noted that effective land use policies could increase county revenue through better resource management and by attracting investment.

Lomorukai also highlighted the need to align land policies with broader sustainable development goals, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of environmental degradation.

Chief Officer Robert Loyelei stressed the value of data and research in informing policy decisions. This includes mapping land resources and assessing current usage. He also pointed to the importance of establishing clear regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable land use while protecting community rights.

Representatives from the County Fire Services Department shared that they are in the process of developing a fire policy, which will be followed by regulations to improve safety in all eight major towns in Turkana.

Engineer Longolol stated that while national laws are currently being enforced, they limit the department’s ability to fully enhance safety and wellbeing. He noted that new county-level regulations would bridge this gap.

The IFC is offering technical support in the development of both the land use policy and the fire and safety regulatory frameworks.

The meeting was attended by senior county officials, including senior county government officials, County Attorney Ruth Emanikor, other legal representatives, and IFC delegates.