Lodwar, October 30, 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

County in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), has embarked on developing a Prosopis juliflora control and utilization plan aimed at curbing the invasive species and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

The initiative, supported by the ILO, seeks to transform the management of Prosopis juliflora—locally known as “Mathenge”—into opportunities for green jobs and income generation, while restoring degraded rangelands.

Speaking during a consultative forum to unveil the draft management plan, the County Executive Committee for Natural Resources and Climate Change, Anthony Apalia, said Prosopis was initially introduced in the 1980s to combat desertification but has since become an aggressive invasive species threatening local ecosystems.

“We are on the right track in taking immediate action to provide effective solutions that promote proper utilization and management of Prosopis,” said CECM Apalia. “This plan will help identify policy, legal, and institutional gaps affecting Prosopis management and ensure the plant benefits local communities through decent work and livelihood opportunities.”

Deputy Director for Natural Resources Pauline Ng’oli highlighted the destructive effects of Prosopis on grazing lands, noting that once invaded, they become unsuitable for pastures.

“Our focus is on finding alternative uses for Prosopis and its by-products to improve community livelihoods,” she said.

Assistant County Director for KEFRI Patrick Mwenja presented an overview of the management plan, aligning it with the national Prosopis strategy to ensure consistency and effective implementation.

“Recommendations from this forum will inform future Prosopis control measures,” he noted.

The proposed management plan is expected to guide Turkana County in controlling the spread of Prosopis juliflora while turning the invasive species into a source of economic and environmental resilience.