Lorgum, October 1, 2025 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
A joint forecast blending scientific and traditional methods has predicted stable rains across the Turkana Region , raising optimism for steady pasture and reduced conflict among area’s cross border pastoralist communities.
The three- to six-month outlook was released at an intestine reading ceremony in Loima that brought together experts from the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) and Indigenous Traditional Knowledge (ITK) practitioners from Lokiriama, and Loima.
The forum was convened by the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) with support from DANIDA under the Karamoja Strong Project, as part of the Participatory Scenario Planning (PSP) to anticipate possible situations and guide communities in managing climate risks, avoiding clashes over scarce resources.
Lokiriama Sub-County administrator Geoffrey Apedor said the process is focused on ensuring more reliable and disseminate relevant advisories for communities most vulnerable to climate change are being developed and the dissemination plan developed as well.
The workshop saw a significant turnout of key stakeholders, including officials from the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA), as well as Deputy County Commissioners from Loima and Lokiriama.
Edapal Echwa traditional elder respected ITK practitioner from Loima, said traditional readings indicated rivers would remain full and water sufficient for livestock.
”Migration will be minimal, meaning the likelihood of conflict is low. But people must use resources wisely to last through the season,” he added.
Sub-county water engineer, however, warned of possible side effects. Judy Eregae , said constant rains could trigger a rise in waterborne diseases and malaria.
”This information helps us prepare preventive measures such as health education through Community health Promoter (CHPs) and, put facilities in readiness to respond to potential diseases upsurge and outbreaks,” she noted.
Alfred Loyok Team leader Karamoja Strong Project at DRC , said the data would inform strategies for peacebuilding and protection of vulnerable groups Adding that stable rainfall also creates opportunities to promote rain-fed farming and strengthen food security.
The blend of science and tradition is being championed to ensure that climate advisories resonate deeply with local communities, Loyok said.
According to Anthony Mwangi Deputy commissioner for Lokiriama the forecast allows us to prevent conflicts before they occur while encouraging peace and dietary diversification,”
The workshop was also addressed by key Stakeholders including ,Isako Mamo -National Drought Management Authority .NDMA
National government representatives who addressed the forum include ,Magangi Justus, DCC for Loima and chiefs forum
Other officials included,
Senior county government officials present were Judy Eregae,Sub county water engineer, Esekon Debra sub county Nutrition Coordinator Lokiriama, ,Pauline Ngakipi Deputy Sub-County Administrator Lokiriama. Maraka Andrew Sub-County Veterinary officer Lokiriama
