WEST POKOT, Kenya – To make sure that the communities surrounding the Turkwel Hydropower Plant get more from the abundant energy resource, West Pokot County leadership, led by Governor Simon Kachapin, has committed to working more closely with the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).
In order to discuss infrastructure, employment, and community development concerns in the Turkwel area, a delegation from KenGen, headed by the Managing Director and CEO, Eng. Peter Njenga met consultatively with county officials and the Ministry of Interior.
While the power plant has played a significant role in stabilising the supply of electricity, Governor Kachapin stressed that further work must be done to enhance the well-being of locals.
“Turkwel produces the most megawatts in the western region, yet communities around it continue to lack basic amenities such as electricity, water, and proper roads. We are ready to work with KenGen to ensure that our people benefit from this resource,” he said.
The governor also called for higher employment opportunities for locals, stressing the need for representation not only at lower levels but also in management positions.
Eng. Njenga acknowledged the concerns and assured the county that KenGen is committed to expanding its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs to include schools, hospitals, water projects, and road infrastructure.
“We are already planning to set up an office at the Turkwel plant, station more employees there, and have constructed housing units for staff. A tender is also out for the maintenance of the Turkwel road. Communities living around our facilities must see the tangible benefits of these investments,” he said.
He further noted that the government, which owns 70% of KenGen, is keen on ensuring stability and long-term development in the region.
Why the West Pokot County government and KenGen plan to work with the Ministry of Interior
Both the county leadership and KenGen agreed to work hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Interior to strengthen peace and stability in Turkwel, while mainstreaming CSR initiatives to directly uplift the lives of surrounding communities.
In January 2024, Governor Kachapin hosted a delegation from the national government in a move that was aimed at reviving the neglected state lodge project in Turkwel.
The county boss hosted Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and President William Ruto’s personal assistant, Farouk Kibet, at Turkwel to assess a proposed site for the construction of a new state lodge along the scenic banks of Turkwel Gorge Dam in Riting, Endugh Ward.
The envisioned state lodge, with an estimated cost of Sh230 million, aims to accommodate over 3,000 people during state events. This initiative seeks to revive a long-neglected project, one that promises to inject life into the region.
During the visit, Governor Kachapin emphasised the transformative impact the project could have on the community, stating that the state lodge holds the promise of drastically changing the livelihoods of the residents in this area.
What are some of the projects that the national government will implement in West Pokot
Acknowledging the significance of community involvement, Kachapin stressed the importance of collaboration with the local populace and those in charge of the lodge’s construction.
“Let us work closely with the people who will be in charge of the construction,” he urged.
PS Omollo highlighted a series of complementary initiatives to enhance infrastructure and social amenities in the region.
“Roads, electricity, and school expansion are among our priorities,” he confirmed, signalling a broader development agenda in conjunction with the lodge’s construction.
He concluded his visit by revealing plans to commission several pivotal projects in the region, demonstrating a commitment to advancing development initiatives that are poised to uplift the community’s standard of living.
The proposed state lodge stands not only as a symbol of progress but also as a catalyst for socio-economic transformation, with the potential to breathe new life into the area and foster a sense of prosperity among its residents.
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