Lokichoggio, November 29, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

The Lokichoggio Water Scheme has been officially handed over to Turkana Rural Water Company (TURWASCO).

The formal takeover was officiated by Ekai Nabenyo, the County Director of Legal Services, and witnessed by County Executive for Water, Patrick Losike Lokaimoe, and other government officials.

“This move transfers management to a professionally run entity established under county and national laws,” said Lokaimoe. “It’s part of our broader plan to address inefficiencies and mismanagement that have long plagued water service provision in Turkana.”

CEC Lokaimoe revealed that Lokichoggio is just the starting point, with plans to extend similar takeovers to other major schemes, including Lorgum, Lokichar, and Lokitaung. The initiative is guided by the Turkana County Water Act of 2019, which aims to professionalize water services and ensure compliance with best practices.

Earlier this year, Turkana Urban Water Company assumed control of the Lodwar Water and Sewerage Company (LOWASCO), setting a precedent for the management of urban water schemes.

The takeover agreement was signed by TURWASCO Managing Director Ekaran Vistorsam and Joel Lochor, Chair of the Lokichoggio Water Scheme, in the presence of local authorities.

Advocate Nabenyo emphasized the legal framework’s role in ensuring accountability and facilitating the adoption of industry best practices.

USAID’s Sustainable Transformational and Accessible Water Interventions (STAWI) program endorsed the county’s approach. Patricia Mwangi, STAWI’s Rural Water Specialist, highlighted the alignment of Turkana’s reforms with national legal frameworks for water management.

“The County Water Act 2019 is a comprehensive tool that, when diligently implemented, will help realize the constitutional right to water access,” Mwangi said. She added that the transition demonstrates Turkana’s commitment to delivering clean and safe water to its residents for domestic use, agricultural production, and other uses.

TURWASCO Board Chair Paul Merinyang’, Board Director Hashim Kerio, Managing Director of KALWASCO Zacharia Etukon, and STAWI representatives were also present. Community members, local leaders, and government officials participated in the event.