Nairobi, October 11, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

In a groundbreaking achievement, Loroo Emmanuel Esekon has become the first graduate from Turkana to complete the Presidential Innovation Challenge Award program, an intensive eight-month initiative aimed at nurturing young innovators in Kenya. This milestone not only certifies him as an innovator in the climate change sector but also establishes him as a vital ambassador for technical education.

Among a cohort of 30 innovators, Loroo presented his project, the climate-smart Turkana Cultural Stools, or Ekicholong, addressing critical issues like food insecurity and sustainability. At the graduation ceremony, the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs lauded the graduates for their potential to effect positive societal change. “Investing in innovation has a compounding effect that benefits the entire value chain,” he remarked.

Each graduate received cash grants ranging from Ksh 500,000 to over Ksh 2.5 million to support their entrepreneurial ventures. Loroo’s recognition extends further; he has been nominated for the National Heroes Award, to be bestowed during Mashujaa Day 2024, alongside fellow Turkana natives for their contributions to indigenous knowledge and peacebuilding.

With these accolades and newfound skills, Loroo is positioned to lead in developing climate-smart technologies tailored for everyday use, marking a significant step forward for innovation in Turkana County.