Leaders from Baringo County have renewed calls for accelerated economic development of the Lake Baringo region following the restoration of peace through government-led security operations.
Speaking during the annual water sports competitions held at Kampi ya Samaki, Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi urged both local and foreign investors to tap into the vast economic potential of Lake Baringo for the benefit of surrounding communities.
He noted that sustained peace has opened up opportunities for investment and long-term development around the lake.
Governor Cheboi said Lake Baringo, strategically located within Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, is well positioned for ecotourism, mining and value addition. Adding that developing the lake aligns with both the county government’s development agenda and the national government’s blueprint on wealth creation, food security, job creation and sustainable use of natural resources.
“The lake has enormous untapped potential, particularly in tourism activities such as birdwatching, boating and cultural experiences. However, it requires modern resorts, eco-lodges and supporting infrastructure to attract more visitors,” said Cheboi.
The governor revealed that his administration is investing in fisheries development by establishing landing beaches around the lake and restocking it with one million fingerlings.
The initiative aims to increase fish stocks, enhance incomes for fishing communities and promote sustainable livelihoods.
He was accompanied by his deputy, Engineer Felix Kimaiyo, Baringo North Member of Parliament Joseph Makilap and County Woman Member of Parliament Florence Jematia.
The leaders encouraged professionals and entrepreneurs from Baringo County to invest in the hospitality industry and develop value-added services linked to tourism.
Deputy Governor Kimaiyo emphasized the need for modern and sustainable fishing methods to curb overfishing and protect the lake’s ecosystem.
Kimaiyo said that the newly established beaches and planned investments would create direct employment opportunities for hundreds of residents, including revenue collectors for the county government.
On his part, MP Makilap described Lake Baringo as a “game changer” for the county’s economy, calling for its development to international standards.
He disclosed that the national government plans to use water from the lake to irrigate 56,000 acres of land bordering the lake, a move expected to boost agricultural productivity and improve food security.
“A feasibility study for the irrigation project has already been completed at a cost of Sh920 million, and we expect implementation to begin soon,” said Makilap. Adding that the project would also improve access to clean and safe water for domestic use by local communities.
Woman MP Jematia appealed for the provision of cold storage facilities for fishmongers around the lake to reduce post-harvest losses and increase incomes. She also called for support in acquiring modern boats to enhance access, efficiency and safety during fishing activities.
The leaders commended the government for restoring peace in the region over the past year through a disarmament operation targeting the Ilchamus, Tugen and Pokot communities.
They noted that the proliferation of illegal firearms had fueled decades of banditry in the Kerio Valley and other parts of the North Rift.
They expressed optimism that sustained peace would accelerate development, attract investment and transform Lake Baringo into a key economic hub for the county.
By Benson Kelio and Christopher Kiprop
