Lodwar, 22nd January 2025 (Governor’s Press Service)- The County Government of Turkana has acted to prevent a water crisis in Lodwar Municipality after Kenya Power disconnected electricity to boreholes due to unpaid bills amounting to Ksh 7.7 million.
Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai announced that Ksh 2.7 million had been paid to partially clear the arrears, enabling the restoration of power and resumption of water supply by the Turkana Urban Water and Sewerage Company (TUWASCO).
Speaking after meeting staff of the Ministry of Water and TUWASCO’, the Governor urged residents to pay their water bills to support the utility’s operations. “The County Government has paid Ksh 2.7 million to ensure Lodwar Municipality and its surroundings continue to receive water. I encourage residents to settle their bills to help TUWASCO sustain services,” Governor Lomorukai said.
County Executive for Water Patrick Losike, Chief Officer Simon Etom and TUWASCO Ag. Managing Director Benedict Ekeru were among officials who attended the meeting. The Governor reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to ensuring reliable water access across Turkana. He announced plans to include water companies in the county’s budgeting system to enhance their financial stability and operational independence.
Governor Lomorukai also highlighted challenges such as delays in fund disbursement by the National Treasury, which affect the county’s ability to deliver essential services. To address recurring electricity arrears, the Governor proposed transitioning boreholes to solar power as a long-term solution. He confirmed that funds for this initiative would be included in future budgets.
The Governor tasked TUWASCO’s new leadership with forming a resource mobilisation committee to seek additional funding. He emphasised the need to expand water services to underserved areas like Nabei, Canan, Narewa, and Nabulon. He expressed confidence in the Acting Managing Director’s ability to enhance TUWASCO’s efficiency and ensure reliable access to clean water for Turkana residents.
