Residents of Turkana West are set to benefit from improved water access, thanks to a U.S.-funded initiative by the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Kenya.

The program has commenced the drilling of a new borehole at Lochor Edome village in Lopur Ward hoping to strike an hourly yield of more than 15 cubic meters of clean and safe water. Plans are also underway to rehabilitate another borehole at Agis in Kakuma Ward.

This initiative aims to strengthen the resilience of pastoralists, migrants, and displaced individuals in the region, complementing the Government’s longstanding efforts to expand water access in Turkana West, an area that has faced water scarcity for many years.

It is expected that the initiative will directly benefit 250 households and up to 60,000 livestock units in the expansive area mostly known for the Pastoralist way of life.

During an inspection of the drilling works, officials from Peace Winds Japan, World Vision Kenya, and the County Government accompanied IOM representatives.

IOM WASH officer, Patrick Maina, expressed optimism that the new borehole would provide sufficient water for domestic use and agricultural production through smart farms.

Additionally, he divulged plans to collaborate with other sector players to utilize data effectively in promoting evidence-based Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs.

“The efforts by IOM fully integrate conflict-sensitive approaches to mitigate the ongoing impacts of an unending cycle of flash floods and drought experienced in the area due to climate change,” Maina said.

The borehole installation and rehabilitation project represents a vital step towards addressing water scarcity in Turkana West, promising a better quality of life for its residents.

Additionally, the program will integrate smart farms for agricultural production targeting to expand livelihood options for up to 2500 beneficiaries at Locher Edome in Lopur Ward, Agis in Kakuma Ward, and Nawountous in Kalobeyei Ward.