Governor attributes improved North Rift security to declined banditry

Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomurukai during the 9th edition of the Tobong’u Lore Cultural Festival in Lodwar town

There has been a decline in banditry in the North Rift leading to improved security, Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has said.

The Turkana community has enjoyed better relations with their neighbours due to the peace and stability, Lomorukai added, while reaffirming his commitment to service delivery, saying this remains his top priority.

The governor, who was speaking in Lodwar town after the county successfully hosted the 9th Tobong’u Lore Cultural Festival, which was graced by President William Ruto, among other guests.

“The lives and needs of our people are bigger than politics. Even when the President was here, he emphasised the need for leaders to unite,” Lomorukai said.

The county boss noted that the welfare and needs of the Turkana people must take precedence over political interests, as he called on leaders to work together in addressing shared challenges, as directed by the President during the festival’s opening.

Improved relations have also seen communities in the region enjoy better relations with those across the border with Uganda.

These recent gains were the result of sustained unity among leaders, he said, adding that Turkana would make great strides if leaders unite to drive the development agenda forward.

Lomorukai welcomed development commitments announced by the President during the festival’s grand opening, saying they reflected continued national government support for Turkana.

“We want to sincerely appreciate the President. As a county, we will work closely with the national government to ensure development reaches our people across all sectors.”

Lomorukai directed all departments to compile and submit lists of development projects implemented over the last two years, noting that the county plans to officially launch completed initiatives in the coming year.

“These projects directly touch on the livelihoods of our people. All leaders will be invited to participate as we account for progress made,” he said.

Addressing the climate change–induced drought currently affecting the region, the governor confirmed that a countywide food distribution programme is set to begin.

Neighbouring communities would also benefit from the intervention—as envisioned in Ateker culture.

“Our borders cut across the Ateker community. In the spirit of sharing that defines our culture, the border communities will also be included in this exercise.” 

He added that the Kimormor initiative, an integrated outreach programme delivering essential services directly to pastoralist communities, would also extend to border areas.

Deputy Governor John Erus said Turkana continues to attract investor interest, thanks to Lomorukai’s deliberate efforts to strengthen partnerships and accountability.

“The governor is keen on partnerships and my office exists to facilitate that vision. The county has also committed matching funds to donor-supported programmes to ensure sustainable impact,” Erus said.

Kanamkemer MCA James Ikeny reported that the local community, which donated land for the establishment of the Ekalees Cultural Centre, was willing to provide additional land for a proposed stadium, to which the President had pledged to pump Sh 900 million.