Turkana Governor, Jeremiah Lomorukai, has called upon the residents to support conservation and proper use of wetland resources, to maximize their potential of providing a source of livelihood and improving biodiversity.
Acknowledging the support provided for climate change mitigation efforts and the county’s participation in tree planting exercises, the Governor affirmed his commitment to eliminating threats to the wetlands.
The Governor further revealed that the County Government was collaborating with partners, to tap into the economic potential of Lake Turkana in the hospitality industry, water transport, and sports.
“We are glad that NEMA, KFS, KEFRI, KWS, KMA, World Vision, KDF, TUC, LOKADO, KMTC, BOMA project, Wetland International, and many other partners have shown interest in working with the County on environmental conservation measures, to safeguard the wetland ecosystems from degradation,” the Governor added.
The Turkana County Government observed World Wetlands Day 2023, a global event celebrated every 2nd of February to commemorate the Ramsar Convention of 1971, promoting the sustainable use of wetland ecosystems and their resources.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the County Governor by Elizabeth Loote, the Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Tourism, Culture, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, the County boss acknowledged the critical contribution of wetlands to residents’ livelihoods and the economic well-being of the County.
Governor Lomorukai highlighted Lake Turkana, River Turkwell, River Kerio, and Lotikipi swamps, as the major wetlands of Turkana County, emphasizing their role in water provision, the blue economy, tourism, and fishing value chains.
Loote, emphasized that the day was meant to create awareness of wetlands under the theme of Wetlands and Human Wellbeing.
Loote added that the wetlands acknowledged by the Governor covered a massive area and substantial water in aquifer formations capable of supporting the country for up to 70 years.
“It is also essential to understand that our wetlands suffer a great deal during prolonged droughts and unpredictable weather patterns. There is a need for embracing climate-smart approaches to mitigate against the degradation of the wetland ecosystems,” CECM reiterated.
CECM Loote led the residents in conducting a clean-up of Kerio Town and sensitized the area residents to the need for sustainable utilisation of the resources.
Similar events were marked at various locations across Kenya, with the main event at Timboroa Dam, where CS for Environment, Soipan Tuya, called on people who have encroached on wetlands to voluntarily vacate.
Other speakers present included, Chief Officers, Joseph Ekalale (Natural Resources and Climate Change), and Evans Lomodei (Fisheries and AquaCulture), Directors from the County, and representatives of partners.
by Peter Gitonga
