Turkana County government has assured visitors intending to attend the annual Tourism and Cultural festival, Tobong’u Lore of their safety as they travel and during the festival.
The festival which attracts visitors from neighbouring countries of Ethiopia, South Sudan and Uganda will commence on December 9-11.
County Executive Committee Member for Public Service, Administration and Disaster Management, Charles Lokioto said the county government and the national police service officials and county directorate of enforcement officers have held meetings to beef up security during the festival.
The assurance comes at a time when a section of residents has opposed the event saying it was a misplaced priority for residents battling drought.
Lokioto who chairs the security committee planning the event said security officers have been deployed to escort visitors coming from Ethiopia, South Sudan, Uganda and Samburu in Kenya to Lodwar, the venue of the festival.
He added that police officers have also been deployed in Lodwar on the roads, hotels and Ekaales centre where the event will be held. “We have set up a police post at Ekaales centre to ensure police address any incidents of insecurity and patrols in the town,” said Lokioto.
At the same time, he dismissed reports that the county government is spending Sh 100 million to host the event but did not divulge the exact amount being spent for the event.
The event presents an opportunity for the county to build relationships with its neighbours and market the county as a tourist destination.
By Peter Gitonga
