Lodwar – June 12, 2026 (Public Communication and Media Relations)

The Horn of Africa Groundwater for Resilience Project (HoAGW4RP) has concluded a county-wide training aimed at strengthening the capacity of community water users. This is geared towards addressing grievances, prevent gender-based violence, and promote the safe and inclusive implementation of water projects.

A total of 170 members drawn from rural water supply projects were trained on grievance redress mechanisms (GRM), gender-based violence (GBV), sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), and sexual harassment (SH).

The participants were drawn from Kalobeyei, Koribok, Lowarengak, Loturtur, Nariamao, Kaitese, Lokwii, Lotubae, Nang’olekuruk and Kang’akimak, where water projects are currently under implementation.

Speaking during the event, County Project Coordinator Eng. Charles Ekeno said the programme was designed to strengthen accountability and community ownership of water projects.

“Community structures play a critical role in ensuring projects are implemented transparently and that concerns raised by residents are addressed promptly,” said Ekeno.

He added that equipping local committees with knowledge on social safeguards, will help create safer project environments and ensure that the benefits of water investments reach the community.

“The success of these projects depends on informed committees that can protect community interests, resolve disputes and promote inclusion throughout the implementation,” he said.

The training also provided a forum for participants to share experiences and discuss ways of improving community engagement in water resource management.

HoAGW4RP is implementing water access interventions across Turkana County while promoting social safeguards and strengthening community resilience.