Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has assured a delegation from the Danish Embassy and United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) that his administration has integrated refugees into development plans through the County Integrated Development Programme (CIDP).
He also raised concerns about the strain on resources caused by the growing refugee population, calling for increased investment to manage the situation in Turkana West.
The Governor had welcomed a delegation from the Royal Danish Embassy and UNHCR representatives at the County headquarters in Lodwar.
The delegation, led by Kanar Patruss, the Regional Refugees and Humanitarian Team Leader, updated the Governor on the Inclusive Refugee Responsive Programme (IRRP). The programme focuses on improving access to quality services in health, education, and water for both refugees and host communities.
Governor Lomorukai commended the Danish Embassy for its continued support in the livelihoods sector. He called for increased investment from development partners to address gaps in critical sectors such as health, education, and water.
“The Danish Embassy has played a vital role in supporting key programmes in Turkana. We are committed to creating a conducive environment for partners to implement initiatives like WASH,” he stated.
The Governor also emphasized the County Government’s investments in the water sector and highlighted the need for additional resources to tap into Turkana’s aquifers, which hold the potential to support large-scale food security projects. He noted that Turkana’s vast size and limited funding from the exchequer sometimes hinder emergency responses in remote areas such as Kibish and Kapedo.
Ms. Kanar Patruss expressed gratitude to the County Government for its support in implementing projects.
She noted that her organisation focuses on building resilience among both refugees and host communities in Turkana West. She also said the Ushirika Plan provides a roadmap for integrating refugees and host communities.
Deputy Governor John Erus reiterated the County Government’s commitment to strengthening partnerships. He outlined progress in the water sector and emphasized the potential of public-private partnerships to bridge existing gaps.
The meeting was attended by County Executives Wiljustus Lopeyok (Education), Patrick Losike (Water), and Dr. Joseph Epem (Health), along with Deputy County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a, Medical Services Chief Officer Ezekiel Ekuwam, Chief of Staff Peter Loyapan, and Director of Liaison Joel Mwita.
By Peter Gitonga