Lodwar – 10th September 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
The Cabinet Secretary for East Africa, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL), and Regional Development, Hon. Beatrice Askul Moe, paid a courtesy visit to the County Government of Turkana, where she met with Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus, along with other county officials.
The visit was part of her ongoing mission to monitor and evaluate the sustainability of projects implemented during the first phase of the Kenya Development Response to Displacement Impacts Project (KDRDIP).
During the meeting, Hon. Askul emphasized the importance of assessing the impact of these projects on the ground, noting that such evaluations are key to ensuring their long-term success. She highlighted the national government’s commitment to delivering on President William Ruto’s vision of adding value to the lives of the people through impactful projects.
In addition to the evaluation, the Cabinet Secretary announced plans to distribute government relief food and non-food items to households severely affected by the ongoing drought in the region.
“We are here to ensure that the support provided to the people of Turkana is not just immediate but also sustainable. Our aim is to leave behind success stories, and that’s what we want to see,” she stated.
Hon. Askul further assured the County Government that the national government is dedicated to fast-tracking development projects and exploring new areas of partnership. She also expressed her commitment to enhancing the opening of borders within the region to facilitate the smooth movement of goods, which is vital for the economic growth of Turkana and its neighboring countries and counties.
Principal Secretary Asal and Regional Kello Harsama, who accompanied the Cabinet Secretary, provided a briefing on the purpose of the visit, underscoring the focus on monitoring the implementation of ongoing projects and identifying areas for further development.
Deputy Governor Dr John Erus welcomed Hon. Askul to Turkana and reiterated the county government’s support for the national government’s initiatives. He also suggested potential areas for collaboration under the Shirika Plan, aiming to improve service delivery and development outcomes in the county.
County Secretary Peter Eripete echoed the sentiments of partnership, particularly in the area of peace building. He highlighted the importance of the One Health approach in fostering peace and development in Turkana, an area that has historically faced challenges related to conflict and resource scarcity.
