Lodwar, April 16, 2025 (Governor’s Press Service) – Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai today received a delegation from the State Department of Physical Planning, IGAD, and the National Land Commission at the County Headquarters in Lodwar. 

The team, led by Assistant Director of Physical Planning Mogeni Ntabo, updated the Governor on the ongoing spatial planning exercise for the transhumance corridor along the Kenya-Uganda border, an initiative supported by IGAD. 

The IGAD Land Governance initiative has concluded Phase Two of the Lokiriama Land Use Plan, which aims to reduce resource-based conflicts. 

Governor Lomorukai described the process as crucial and emphasized that it will aid in resource mapping, enhance cross-border trade, and establish systems to prevent conflicts linked to livestock and human movement across the border. 

The County boss said that the county had enormous mineral resources but lacked the capacity to exploit them. He expressed optimism that it would unlock the potential of resources like gold mining, which is currently being undertaken on a small scale. 

Governor Lomorukai cited Lomokori and Nakitong’o as key border points where the County Government is planning to invest to spur cross-border trade. He acknowledged that the process would boost data on resources and would require sufficient funding for its success. 

Ntabo said a preliminary map of 4,600 square kilometers had been established after reconnaissance and engagement with stakeholders within the target areas of Lokiriama Sub-county. He assured that they are working with line departments of the County Government to ensure that the plan aligns with government priorities. 

The next phase of the planning will be data collection. A similar exercise is being undertaken on the Uganda side with support from IGAD. 

Acting County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a, County Executives Dr. Joseph Epem (Health) and Benson Lokwang (Roads), and Chief Officer in the Governor’s Office Moses Korea were in attendance.