Turkana County Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus, representing Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai, has called for increased investment in Lake Turkana.
Speaking at a breakout session called “Go Blue,” Dr. Erus described Lake Turkana as a strategic asset with the power to transform livelihoods across the region. He noted that the lake’s extensive aquatic resources and geographic positioning make it an ideal location for viable economic activities that can drive long-term development.
The Deputy Governor emphasized that the lake has enormous potential to support large-scale fishing and processing ventures.
He asserted that with proper investment in modern fish processing plants, Turkana could supply both domestic and export markets, boosting income for local communities and contributing to national food security.
He also pointed out that the fisheries sector could generate significant job opportunities, especially for youth and women living along the lake’s shores.
In addition to fishing, the Deputy Governor highlighted the potential of Lake Turkana as a transport and trade corridor. He emphasized that the county envisions a future where the lake serves as a key inter-county and international waterway, linking Turkana to neighboring counties and even to cross-border regions of southern Ethiopia.
This, he explained, would not only stimulate regional trade but also enhance connectivity and integration across the Horn of Africa.
Dr. Erus also stressed the importance of sustainability, noting that development of the lake must go hand in hand with the preservation of its fragile ecosystem.
He called for the establishment of fisheries research facilities to ensure that aquatic resources are exploited responsibly and guided by scientific data. Protecting the lake from environmental degradation, he said, is essential to securing its long-term economic value.
Calling on national government agencies, development partners, and private investors, he invited collaboration in funding and implementing transformative projects around the lake. He assured potential partners that Turkana County is ready to offer a supportive policy environment and to facilitate investment through strong public-private partnerships.
“Lake Turkana is more than a natural wonder. It’s a gateway to economic transformation. With the right investment, we can turn its waters into waves of opportunity for our people and beyond,” he said.
Senior county officials accompanying the Deputy Governor were County Secretary Richard Ekai and County Executive Committee members Michael Eregae (Agriculture), Anthony Apalia (Tourism), and James Wangiros (Trade). County Chief Officers Moses Korea (Office of the Governor), Peter Lomorukai (Municipality), John Korikel (Tourism), Gilchrist Lokoel (Medical Services), Janerose Tioko (Preventive and Promotive), Joseph Ekalale (Climate Change), Mark Achilla (Water Services)
A host of MCAs led by County Assembly Speaker Charles Lokiyoto also attended the conference.
By Peter Gitonga
