Lodwar – April 27, 2026 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
Residents of Turkana Central have concluded a public review of the proposed 2026–2027 Financial Year budget, with strong calls for the county government to prioritise stalled projects over launching new ones.
During the forum, approximately 250 residents participated in a page-by-page review of the budget before breaking into groups to identify and document key issues affecting each ward. The engagement brought together diverse interest groups, including business owners, civil society representatives, women, youth, and persons with disabilities from the five wards of Turkana Central—Kalokol, Kang’atotha, Kerio, Kanamkemer, and Lodwar Township.
A recurring concern across the wards was the need to complete ongoing but stalled projects. Recognising the county government commitment to develop the county, residents emphasised that unfinished developments continue to limit access to essential services and economic opportunities.
Speaking on behalf of Kerio Ward, Mathew Longor, a young person, outlined several priority projects, including the completion of Nadoto Modern Market to support traders and improve food access, construction of Nadoto ECD Centre, renovation of the ward administrator’s office, rehabilitation of Kerio Sale Yard to enhance trade, completion of Nakudet ECD Unit, and installation of the Lokakimat borehole system to improve water access.
From Lodwar Township Ward, businesswoman Mary Amojong highlighted the importance of public participation in promoting transparency in government processes. She called for licensing fee waivers to cushion small businesses against the high cost of living and requested provision of umbrellas to protect traders from harsh weather conditions.
Lopeto Michael, an elder from Kang’atotha Ward, underscored the value of involving residents throughout the entire budget-making process. He noted that public participation helps ensure that real community needs are prioritised and prevents allocation of resources to less impactful projects.
Regina Akiru from Kanamkemer Ward raised concerns about persistent water shortages and limited access to education. She called for urgent investment in water systems and increased educational support to keep children in school.
Ekipetot Ekaran, representing persons with disabilities from Kalokol Ward, stressed the importance of inclusive planning. He highlighted the need to prioritise Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres and healthcare facilities, while also calling for improved accessibility through better roads and pavements.
By the end of the deliberations, residents expressed satisfaction with the transparency and inclusiveness of the process.
The forum was attended by the Turkana Central Sub-County and Ward Administrator, Esther Kiyong’a, alongside ward administrators and officials from various departments, including Economic Planning, Public Service, and Disaster Management.
