President William Ruto has unveiled a Sh10.7 billion development package for Turkana County, pledging to end the region’s long-standing marginalisation through infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, and energy projects.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, during a meeting with grassroots leaders from Turkana, Ruto said the multi-sectoral projects are designed to accelerate growth and unlock the county’s potential.
At the core of the plan is the complete overhaul of the Maili Tisa–Kitale–Kainuk–Lokichar road, which the President described as a lifeline that will open up Turkana to new opportunities and markets across the country. “For far too long, Turkana County’s progress has been held back, leaving it to lag behind other regions of our nation,” Ruto said.
To boost energy access, the government will implement a Sh2.3 billion rural electrification programme, expected to power households, businesses, and institutions across the vast county.
In the agricultural sector, Ruto announced a Sh2.5 billion expansion of the Turkwel Irrigation Scheme, which will bring more than 100,000 acres under cultivation. He said the initiative would enhance food security and improve livelihoods through commercial farming.
Youth and sports development will also benefit, with the construction of a Sh900 million modern stadium in Lodwar already underway. The government further committed Sh700 million to build two modern fish markets, aiming to strengthen the county’s fishing economy.
Health services will be upgraded through the expansion and equipping of Lodwar County Referral Hospital, while the education sector will see a Sh2.3 billion student hostel programme to provide safe, decent housing for learners in universities and colleges.
Ruto also urged leaders from the county to encourage residents to register with the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA), which he said would ensure affordable and quality healthcare for all households.
The President assured Turkana leaders that the government’s commitment to development in the region is unwavering, noting that the projects would not only uplift livelihoods but also integrate Turkana more closely with the rest of the country’s economy.
