Kakuma, 24th May 2025 (Governor’s Press Service) – Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has called on NGOs operating in Turkana to adhere to the requirements of the Local Content Law, which mandates that 70% of jobs be reserved for locals.

He made the remarks while attending the burial of the late Mama Moruong’or Losike, whom he eulogised as a strong pillar of the Kakuma community, whose legacy of strength and service will live on through her children and the community she nurtured. Mama Moruong’or was the mother of the County Executive for Water Services, Patrick Losike.

The Governor reminded NGOs of their obligation to create jobs and business opportunities for the people of Turkana.

“We need our development partners to grant our people their fair share of opportunities, as stipulated in the law,” the Governor said.

He emphasised his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, noting that Turkana County boasts one of the highest youth representations in public service, a deliberate move to empower young people through policy and practice.

Governor Lomorukai also celebrated Turkana’s growing stability, attributing it to ongoing peace efforts, particularly across the broader Ateker region, which are now bearing fruit.

He expressed gratitude to President William Ruto, stating that the President has honoured Turkana with key national appointments that should not go unnoticed.

“Let us stand with the President. He has stood with us. It’s only right we reciprocate his goodwill with our unity and support,” Governor Lomorukai added.

Woman Representative Cecilia Ngitit sounded a note of caution, urging a deeper review of the Shirika Plan and stressing that the interests of the Turkana people must always come first.

Special Presidential Peace Envoy for the Ateker region, John Munyes, praised the Governor’s strategic diplomacy across the Ateker region, crediting it for unlocking unprecedented peace dividends.

Kakuma MCA Hon. Eliud Emoni concluded by stressing that Kakuma Municipality must now deliver on its promise of jobs and development for the people.

Other leaders present included Independent Non-Executive Director at Kenya Pipeline Corporation Joyce Emanikor, MCAs Vincent Ekipor (Lokichogio), Bethwell Kobong’in (Song’ot), Francis Ng’musia (Letea), Muna Abdi (Nominated), and Patrick Esekon (Nominated).

Senior County Government officials accompanying the Governor were Deputy County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a, County Executives Joseph Epem (Health), Faith Aletea (Lands), Roseline Aite (Trade), Chief Officers Ekalale Imoni (Climate change), Triza Amoni (Energy), and Eng. Mark Achila (Roads).