Head of Public Service Felix Kosgei has lauded the Catholic Church for its contribution to the development of the community.
Kosgei said the fruits of labour as a result of the firmness and focus of the Catholic Church were visible despite the challenges facing Turkana County.
“We see schools, educated people, and development coming because of their hard work,” he said.
The Chief of Staff, who was the Chief Guest on Saturday at the Diocesan Education Mass Day organized by the Diocese of Lodwar, said the National Government was focused on investing in Northern Kenya to develop the region to a level where it can compete equally with the rest of the country.
He assured the Turkana leadership of the national government’s commitment towards transforming the education sector.
On his part, Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai acknowledged that the Catholic Church had immensely contributed to the development of the education system in Turkana and cited the current crop of leaders as beneficiaries of the Church education scholarship program.
He informed the church leadership that residents of Turkana County honour the work of renowned former Bishop of Lodwar John Christopher Mahon in the education sector and assured that his administration will continue partnering with the church to transform education in learning institutions.
The governor called for professionalism at the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and cautioned leaders against politicising education matters, a move that he said would derail the learning process in schools.
On insecurity, Governor Lomorukai called for the renovation of schools destroyed by bandits.
He said, “Up to date, we aren’t aware of any school that has received money to support the opening of schools that have been torched by bandits, thus disrupting learning activities.”
Deputy Chief of Staff Josphat Nanok said he will work with all leaders to ensure that the development vision of the National Government is realised in all parts of the country.
The mass was presided over by Diocese of Lodwar Bishop Rev. John Mbinda, who invited education support for children from needy backgrounds.
Other leaders who attended the function included County Woman Representative Cecilia Ngitit, Turkana North MP Ekuwom Nabuin, and County Assembly Speaker Christopher Nakuleu.
By Peter Gitonga
