LODWAR — World Bank delegation team leader Dr. James Origa has expressed confidence in the ongoing water infrastructure developments across Turkana County, highlighting that borehole construction under the Horn of Africa Groundwater for Resilience Project is progressing steadily toward completion.
Speaking during a joint review meeting with county officials in Lodwar on Monday, August 17, 2026, Dr. Origa reported that physical works for the first batch of boreholes have reached 37 per cent, while the second batch stands at 26 per cent. He affirmed that both phases are expected to be successfully completed in the coming months to provide vital water security for local communities.
The progress update marks a crucial milestone for pastoralist populations in the region whose livelihoods rely heavily on livestock and remain vulnerable to severe, recurring droughts. The World Bank-backed project seeks to establish reliable, long-term groundwater resources across arid stretches of the county to alleviate dry-season water distress, reduce forced seasonal migrations, and enhance economic resilience among indigenous herdsmen.
In response to the progress update, Turkana County Secretary Dr. Richard Ekai underscored the county’s dedication to working alongside the World Bank and other development partners to turn these capital investments into sustainable local benefits. Dr. Ekai stressed that groundwater infrastructure must remain responsive to community needs, environmentally sound, and synchronized with county priorities, calling for enhanced coordination among national agencies, municipal authorities, and community leaders.
Reiterating the centrality of the initiative, County Executive Committee Member for Water Services James Long’ole emphasized that reliable water access remains the ultimate development priority for Turkana residents.
The high-level delegation brought together critical sector leaders, including Chief Officer Simon Etom, Water Director Paul Lotum, Administration Director Patrick Imana, County Project Coordinator Eng. Charles Ekeno, leadership from both TUWASCO and TURWASCO, as well as delegates from the Water Sector Trust Fund and K-WASH teams.
