Lodwar, October 28, 2025 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
Residents of Turkana County have been urged to continuously learn about the law to strengthen their understanding of legal issues that affect their daily lives.
The call was made during the Legal Awareness Week held in Lodwar, jointly organized by the County Government through the Office of the County Attorney, the Judiciary, and the Law Society of Kenya.
County Attorney Ruth Emanikor emphasized the cross-cutting nature of law and encouraged residents to acquire general knowledge of how legal principles influence everyday life.
“The law applies to land matters, child custody and maintenance, property management, inheritance, marital relationships, and all aspects of life, the awareness creaction exercise seeks to sensitize residents. However, every individual has an obligation to continuously seek more information.”
Terming the initiative a major step toward community empowerment, Emanikor challenged participants to share the knowledge gained with friends and relatives to expand the reach of legal awareness.
“Most disputes in Turkana especially those involving land and child custody arise from ignorance of the law. We want our people to get the right legal information from credible sources such as lawyers, judicial officers, and the County Attorney’s Office,” she added.
The sensitization was conducted through one on one consultation where individuals shared their concerns for legal guidance from legal experts. At some point during the week, public lectures were also conducted.
Judiciary officer Fredrick Kipkosgei, attached to the Lodwar Law Courts, noted that lack of legal awareness undermines the realization of Article 59 of the Constitution, which provides for the right of access to justice.
“Sensitizing the public on the provisions of the law is a shared duty that helps bridge the awareness gap and promote access to justice,” Kipkosgei said.
The Turkana Chapter Law Society of Kenya Chairperson and Veteran advocate Daniel Ondabu also welcomed the initiative, noting that legal sensitization could reduce unnecessary backlogs by encouraging early dispute resolution.
“When communities are empowered with legal knowledge, they can resolve issues at an early stage. As local practitioners, we remain open to offer mentorship and guidance to ensure people take the right course of action in legal matters,” Ondabu said.
Residents who attended the sessions appreciated the initiative. Wilson Lokoel, a resident of Kanamkemer, said the sensitization had equipped him with the knowledge to navigate land disputes and understand the legal process.
“I have been struggling with a land issue. After attending the sessions, I now know what to do, who to consult, and the possible outcomes of the legal process. We appreciate this initiative,” he said.
Other Senior County Officers who also sensitized the public included; Ekal Lokuruka,(Director Legal service), Shadrack Munyesu,(LSK North Rift representative), Aaron Korobe (Advocate), and officers in the County Attorneys’ office Phoebe Eturote, Roy Ochieng and Paul Jelinga.
