Lodwar- May 10, 2025 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
Communities and leaders in Turkana County have hailed the recently completed infrastructure projects under the World Bank-funded Community Social Impact (CSI) initiative by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), describing them as among the most transformative developments in the region.
The initiative, which delivered 25 public infrastructure projects worth approximately Ksh 4 billion, is set to significantly enhance service delivery across key sectors including education, health, livestock markets, security, water services, and transport. The facilities have been handed over to various national and county government departments for operational management.
Acting County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a said the CSI model offers a blueprint for future development in Turkana.
“This initiative has shown us what excellence looks like. As a county, we plan to replicate this approach to ensure we get value from every public investment,” he said.
Speaking during a tour of the completed projects, Turkana County Commissioner Julius Kavita praised the quality of the infrastructure.
“These facilities can rival the best in the country and even beyond. We are fortunate as a county to have been chosen by KeNHA to set such high standards,” he said.
At Naduat Primary School, the delegation found newly constructed boarding facilities already in use. Headteacher Samuel Losike said the modern design had drawn in more learners and improved school enrollment.
“Children now have a reason to stay in school. When they see these dormitories and classrooms, many say they want to become engineers who build such facilities,” he noted.
At Songot Girls’ School in Teremkus, teacher Mr. Gichaba expressed hope that the new facilities would encourage more girls to pursue education.
“This is a modern institution tailored to benefit girls who had been out of school. They now have a real opportunity to advance their educational goals,” he said.
The impact of the CSI initiative extends beyond the classroom. At Napetao, resident Paul Lobelu observed that the area’s upgraded health centre is attracting healthcare professionals from as far as Lodwar due to improved infrastructure and working conditions.
“You can see Lodwar town beginning to grow in the direction of the health centre. People want to live near such development,” he remarked.
Similar sentiments were echoed by James Eyen, chairperson of the Nadapal Livestock Market, who noted that the newly constructed market is expected to boost cross-border trade with neighbouring South Sudan.
“This market is well-equipped with water, an animal handling area, and a perimeter fence for security. We remain grateful for this investment,” he said.
On the technical design, Engineer Gilbert Arasa from the State Department of Roads said each project was delivered with fully integrated water and power systems as standard utilities.
“All facilities are connected to water and electricity, and thanks to the fibre-optic network laid along the main highway, they will also benefit from high-speed internet,” he noted.
With this level of infrastructure, Turkana is now well-positioned to host regional and national events such as science congresses, school competitions, and major conferences—signaling a new era of opportunity and growth.
