Kalobeyei, 6th June 2025 (Public Communication and Media Relations)

A multi-agency inspection team has declared the Kalobeyei Modern Garage ready for launch, paving the way for its official handover to the Turkana County Government.

The approval follows a high-level meeting convened earlier by Turkana Deputy Governor Dr John Erus with representatives of the implementing partners to resolve issues that had delayed the garage’s operationalization.

“After carefully following the inspection checklist and consulting all parties involved in the implementation, we have confirmed that the garage has the necessary machinery installed and safety protocols in place. The infrastructure is therefore ready for use,” said Helen Nakaru, the inspection team lead and Deputy Director for Revenue.

Once operational, the facility is expected to serve as a public asset that empowers the community socially and economically. It will provide hands-on vocational training, create employment for local youth, and offer a platform for collaboration between host and refugee populations.

Coming at a time when Turkana is pushing for industrial growth to unlock the economic potential of the county through partnerships, the garage could also position the Kakuma-Kalobeyei area as a regional hub for motor vehicle repair and assembly within the neighboring Ateker nations of Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia.

The inspection also included legal checks with the legal team confirming that all statutory and regulatory requirements had been met, ensuring the facility’s compliance with relevant laws.

The inspection team is expected to deliver a formal report to the Deputy Governor later in the week, which will inform the next steps towards commissioning and launching the facility.

Catherine Karanja (UN Women Group Procurement Officer), Sharon Mwende (PWJ Administrative Assistant), and county technical officers Kilimo John (Deputy Director, Physical Planning), Joyce Akai (Legal Officer), Karanja John (Assistant Director, TVET), and Kaman Steven (Assets and Procurement Officer), Joshua Oluoch (PWJ Workshop Officer), Hellen Muchunu (Women, Peace and Security Unit), and Julius Lokaale (Director of Inspectorate) formed the inspection team.