Lodwar – 26th May 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

The newly appointed Chief Officer for Water Services, Mark Achila, has officially assumed office, pledging to support the technical teams in improving water access throughout the county.

The handover ceremony was presided over by Deputy County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a. Chief Achila, previously served as Chief Officer   of Transport and Roads, takes over from Simon Etom, who now moves to Achila’s former office.

“Work to deliver the people’s expectations and to actualise the Governor’s nine-point agenda,” said DCS Nyang’a.

He advised the incoming chief officer to work towards the government’s agenda and uphold the mission and vision of the department.

Water provision is the first agenda in the Governor’s manifesto, the Deputy County Secretary emphasized, advising the new Chief Officer to support technical staff in delivering essential water services to residents.

Outgoing Chief Officer Etom outlined key priority areas, including the fast tracking pending bills and ongoing projects, review and publication of the Water Act 2019 Regulations to unlock the Water Fund, and enhanced support for the three water companies.

He also cited key development partners—KOICA, UNICEF Kenya and World Bank—as critical stakeholders in advancing the county’s water agenda.

“There is also a need to fast-track the operationalise the water testing laboratory,” he added.

The senior management team witnessed the handover ceremony.