Lake Turkana Under Threat

• Visit Friends of Lake Turkana
  

Lake Turkana is a miraculous anomaly of life-giving water in a parched and unforgiving land. Formed millions of years ago in the tectonic upheavals that created East Africa’s Great Rift Valley, Turkana is the largest permanent desert lake in the world. The lake is home to the world's largest population of Nile crocodiles, hippos, and hundreds of bird and fish species. Its shores have revealed the oldest-known fossil remains of Homo habilis. Today, more than a quarter million indigenous peoples from at least ten tribes have become masters of wresting sustenance from the harsh landscape. Without the lake, life here would be virtually impossible.

Lake Turkana (Ikal Angelei)

But Lake Turkana and its inhabitants now face an environmental catastrophe – and an avoidable one. The lake could start drying up when Ethiopia completes its massive Gibe 3 Dam upstream on Lake Turkana's main water source, the Omo River. Ironically, Kenya plans to be a major purchaser of Gibe 3's power.
While Kenya reportedly signed a power purchase agreement in 2006, no bilateral agreements on the use of the Omo-Turkana waterway and the dam’s downstream effects to Kenya are publicly known. The 300,000 people who live around Lake Turkana in Kenya were neither informed of the project’s impacts nor consulted on their priorities. Their situation mirrors that in Ethiopia, where the traditional economy of the Lower Omo Valley supports up to a half million people.
Turkana’s indigenous communities are highly dependent on the lake for their food crops, livestock grazing and watering, and fishing. Any impacts to the lake’s ecosystem would disrupt the economy, leading to an increase in conflicts in the area. Considering the unstable state of peace in Northern Kenya, such damage to the local economies would invoke a threat to regional stability.

My County Turkana is calling on the Kenyan government to protect the interests of the peoples of northwest Kenya, and the ecosystems upon which they depend.
"All agreements with the Ethiopian government needs to be made public. We need to know if the impact on Lake Turkana was even considered. The peoples of Lake Turkana must be heard!"

ENEMIES Samburu / Turkana, North Kenya II

Going into the middle of the Samburu-Turkana conflict was difficult, but in the end it was a positive experience.  This was different from my first shoot in the slums of Kibera.  There I met two people who never really considered themselves enemies to begin with.  The conflicts had risen and fallen like a fire flashing across a skim of gasoline – fast and furious and then mostly gone. The Samburu-Turkana conflict has been going on for generations, so it is a very, very different story.
The funny thing is that when I really talked in depth with people on both sides, they said that the conflict was not that big a deal – it almost seemed like they considered it more like a family feud. The Turkana said that their actual serious enemies are another tribe that lives nomadically in the area and raids both the Samburu and Turkana.  In this video I talk about my impressions talking with and meeting people from each side.
If you can’t see the video below, you can view it on youtube here.

Here is a first sketch I did for one of the photographs of two Grevy’s Zebra Trust Ambassadors – Lmantros Lenagetai on the right is Samburu and Lojore Loputhiki on the left is Turkana. This is just an idea. I know the final product is going to be very different, but I thought people might like to see some of my visual thinking process.
If you are reading this on Facebook, you can see the original blog post here:

AKICHA FM LOCAL NEWS

View my complete profile

Monday, March 28, 2011

Local news -27.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - Physicaland spiritual thirst

he Diocese of Lodwar has Developed water resource all over Turkana County in her endeavors to address the physical and has constructed churches to cater for the spiritual thirst in the entire Turkana county. Addressing the faithfuls during his homily the parish administrator of St. Augustine Cathedral parish Fr. Teo today said that all the types of thirst have been addressed as a result of combined efforts of both the church, Government and the NGO's working in the county.
Fr. Teo said that the Diocese of Lodwar understands these two types of thirst water and spiritual and tries to address them in their various programmes initiated in the diocese. The priest informed the faithfuls that all of them need these two types of thirst, water and spiritual and the readings teach on thirst of water and all of them always feel thirsty of either, physical and inner thirst.
Fr. Francis Teo gave an example of the readings of the day where the Samaritan woman moved from one man to another due to dissatisfaction. The priest went ahead mentioning on the meaning of the two letters no. 6 and 7 , saying that No.6 means dissatisfaction, is a simple of imperfection, lack of something. He also said that Jesus comes to show us of another satisfaction. He said the No.7 means satisfaction and that woman in the bible looked for a 7th Husband who was by then Jesus Christ to show that the number means satisfaction. Fr. Teo said that when the woman came to christ all her spiritual and water thirst was solved and that she experienced complete conversion.
The priest urged the faithfuls to be ready to change their way of doing things if they want to change and be ready to break all the existing boundaries between them. Fr. Teo said that Jesus broke all these boundaries by talking to the Samaritan woman which is the longest dialogue experienced so far in the bible.

Local news – 27.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - U.S Ambassador to Kenya Michael Rannerberger visits Radio Akicha

U.S Ambassador to Kenya Michael Ranneberger today visits Radio Akicha. The US Ambassador explained to the listeners of Radio Akicha live findings of his tour in the County and the united states Government Assistance in Turkana County as a reason why he came all the way to Turkana county to launch the United States African Foundation Turkana Food security Program .
Michael Ranneberger also said that this marks the beginning of the African Development activities in Kenya. He also said that they opted to come to Turkana because it is the among Marginalized areas in Kenya that has been neglected by the government of Kenya for along time.
Highlighting on the development of the County, Ranneberger challenged the political leaders in the area to play their part in advocating for the developments of the County at higher levels. The Ambassador commented on the state of the poor infrastructure in the county including the poor state of the Kitale -Lodwar Highway. He challenged the young people to elect focused and transparent leaders come 2012, who have the needs of the Turkana people in their hearts. He informed the listeners to be having a list of what the leaders had promised them to do in their campaigns and analyse whether they did all that and also analyse the new aspiring politicians and rate them according to their performances.
Michael Ranneberger emphasized on the essence of groupings and encouraged all the youth to form groups and channel their activities through the National youth Forum.

LOCAL NEWS – 26.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - The New dawn to the Turkana people

Turkana county is one of the counties which more than 75% of its residents languish in poverty. From time immemorial this region has not experienced the so called economical projects until today.
The government of the united states through the United States African Development Foundation (USADF) has unlocked the dream of the people of Turkana. The US government has donated more than 860M shillings to facilitate Turkana Food Security Programme. Launching the programme officially today at Moi gardens, the US ambassador to Kenya Michael Ranneberger said that the project will totally be independent, lest politicians interfere with it for them to acquire positions in the 2012 elections.
Ranneberger said that this is a new dawn to the people of Turkana and they have to decide on how this project should be run. He added that the project has come as a fulfillment of the previous research that he did in the region.
The ambassador was accompanied by the USADF chair person Jack Leslie and foundation's president Lloyd Pierson. They were welcomed by the area member of parliament Hon. Ekwee Ethuro and the MP for Turkana South Hon. Josephat Nanok.
The ambassador's convoy moved to Napeikar to access the irrigation scheme, that is one of the irrigation schemes along River Turkwel to determine its potentiality.

LOCAL NEWS – 25.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Turkana county Youth meet the American Ambassador

The American Ambassador to Kenya Michael Ranneberger today visited Turkana county having a meeting with the youth at St. Teresa pastoral center. Speaking at the center, the ambassador said that youth is power in every nation if you empower youths, you would have empowered the whole process of working.
He said that youth have been used for destruction for a long time due to the lack of power, noting what happened in 2007-2008 during the post election violence. The Ambassador noted that youths are the real change, giving an example of president Barrack Obama, whom he said is part of his project.
He added that to curb the problem that the youth are undergoing, they should be given an opportunity to participate in developmental activities. High lighting that American government is willing to donate 10m dollars in partnership with African development foundation (ADF) to fund a project in Turkana county that will run for the next 5 years.
The Ambassador and his convoy will be addressing the members of the public tomorrow at Moi gardens stadium from 9.30am where he will launch a youth forum programme.

Friday, March 25, 2011

LOCAL NEWS – 24.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - World TB day Cellebrated in Lodwar

The world tuber chlosis day was celebrated at Manyata, a constituent of Lodwar district hospital next to Kare academy primary school here in Lodwar. Speaking during the function, the district medical officer of health Dr. Gilchrist Lokoel said that the fight of TB that started in early 70s world wide, has now to done right in the county of Turkana.
He high lighted that despite of the fight being collective, the concern department in the region is being faced by a lot of challenges. He said that this is highly contributed by the movement of people from one place to another, making the issuing of drugs to be difficult.
However the officer in charge of TB department DR. Abraham Kimtai thanked the organizations that have been helping them in fight against TB. He high lighted that the diocese of Lodwar and the AIC church have been of great help to the hospital.

LOCAL NEWS - 23.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Be cautious on weather forecasting

Residents of Turkana county have been urged to make use of the rain and plan well for food production. Speaking during the meteorological day held today, the officer in charge Lodwar meteorological station Mr. Joshua Manuari, said that during this rain season people should plant food crops and trees to help in modulating the weather changes.
He urged all the departments concern to step in and advocate for the conservation of our environment. Manuari said that since weather is the key to every aspect of planning, the ministry of water and irrigation and agriculture are affected directly.
He called for people to reduce the issue of charcoal burning saying that it does not affect only afforestation, but also affect the rate of heat reaching the ground and germination of new plants.
Manuari explained that schools around the station should be visiting it frequently, so that to be ambassadors and interpreters of the message to their parents.
Several secondary schools among them Lodwar high, St. Kevin's and PAG secondary were invited, but could not turn up since they started their examinations yesterday. However Loyo primary and bishop Mahon primary, were among the schools that turned up for the celebrations, that were held at Lodwar meteorological station.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

LOCAL NEWS – 22.03.2011 - By Evangeline Munyi - A mass at kakuma and ire land

A mass which was conducted to link the two schools of St. Leo's Kakuma Secondary school in Turkana County,found in Kakuma (Kenya) and St. Colman's college which is in Ireland was held at St. Leo's Kakuma secondary school to mark the beginning the link between the two schools.
The link between the two schools came as a result of the visit of the Bishop John of Dromore, Ireland last year when he went to St. Leo Kakuma Secondary school accompanied by teachers from St. Colman's College in Ireland.
St. Colman's college was started in 1823 while St. Leo's boys secondary was started in 1990. Although the two schools are far a part from each other, St. Colman's college is ready to adopt St. Leo boys secondary school and assist St. Leo's . The two schools will enjoy a mutual relationship that may as well see them exchanging visits and ideas.
This special mass at St. Leo's secondary was celebrated by Fr. John Kizito Manzi and assisted by Frs. Vincent Yego and Evans Ekai while the Bishop of Dromore celebrated the same mass the same time at St. Colman's College in Ireland today. Members of the Board of Governors (BOG) and Parents Teachers Association (PTA) of St. Leo's Teachers, support staff, and students attended the Holy mass that was held at the school compound.

LOCAL NEWS – 21.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Turkana county urged to plant trees

People in Turkana county have been asked to plant trees in order to attract good weather. Speaking in his office today, the zonal forest officer Turkana central Mr. Enoch Kilimo, said that since trees attract rain fall, then it is important to plant them, even one at your home or farm and maintain it.
He said that tree planting is a collective responsibility that should not be left for the government only, instead we should take charge and step in to maintain our environment. Mr. Kilimo stated that trees have several importance, saying that we need a cool habitat, acts as water catchment areas and attracts rain fall.
He added that community should personalize the issue of forests' maintenance since it is its own resource. Concerning siting, Kilimo said that big trees around and near houses, should be trimmed to reduce its branches which may lead to its falling during heavy winds.
Mr. Kilimo appreciated the work that is done by the diocese of Lodwar in maintaining environment, by promoting tree planting in schools and urged the schools to use the stimulus funds to maintain their forest farms.

Local news – 20.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - Christian Journey during Lent season

The Journey of a christian life is a tough one especially all seasons of Lenten campaign. Addressing the faithfuls of St. Augustine's Cathedral parish during his homily, Fr. John Kizito Manzi said that this is a journey of life and death and thus the faithfuls have to be prepared well for this journey of their faith..
The priest said that every body has her/his own way of Journeying in this season. He said that when one plans a journey, he/she plans on how the journey will be. He also said that in this lent , Christians start a journey of 40 days of repentance and putting things right with God and with one another.
Fr. Manzi said that the readings of the day talked on how Abraham was told to live his motherland and go to a foreign land where God directed him and he did as he was told without hesitation. The priest likewise said that Christians can be called to follow Jesus in various ways but people fail to listen to his voice, instead people listen to voices of other gods who sway them astray. He also said that our journeys should be combined with love, commitment and faith. He said Abraham was a man of hope. And thus knew his lord will not direct him to a wrong place. Fr. Manzi challenged the faithfuls to have patience with all the troubles they face because of their faith as that journey they make changes them and their faith. Touching on the transfiguration of Jesus, He said that Christians also have to be transformed and that they also have to transform others during this season.
Fr. Manzi asked the Christians to make changes in other peoples lives this Lenten period. He said that the faith of Abraham cancels all their curses and instead gives them blessings in this season. He encouraged all to help the needy, first and give their best to the needy and eventually pray for the strength to overcome the temptations from the evil one.

Local news – 19.03.2011 - By Peter Esinyen - Zonal games for the Kenya Medical Training Colleges

The Kenya Medical Training Colleges zonal ball games which have been organized by the Zonal committee was played today at Lodwar MTC. The deputy principal of the Lodwar Kenya medical Training college Mr. Maurice Namisi said that they are hosting zone 7 games which comprises of 3 colleges with them, is Kakamega, Webuye and the hosts Lodwar.
Mr. Namisi said that today they only hosted Kakamega, who participated in foot ball, volley ball, hand ball, long tennis and other in door games. The game which is scheduled for one day took place in three venues that is Lodwar mixed primary, St. Kevin's Secondary and bishop Mahon center Lokiriama. He added that the theme of the game is derived from the agenda 4 of the national accord, which states that institutions should be involved in the promotion of peace. Hee noted that on 26th of March, Lodwar (MTC) will be going to Webuye for the second rounds of the zonals before they come up with one team that will represent the zone in the inter-zonal games later in the year. Mr. Namisi high lighted that there are 13 activities, but his college will be participating in only 6 activities, due to lack of enough facilities.

Local news - 19.3. 2011 - By Peter Esinyen - St. kevin channel 27 visits radio akicha. 19.3. 2011

6 Journalists from St. Kevin secondary school early today visited Radio Akicha led by their club patron Mr. Ambrose Oliech. Journalist both from channel 27 and Bumburuka Radio were happy to learn the news writing, live presentation, technicals and recording. Chairman channel 27 Mathenge Jackson appreciated radio Akicha fraternity for their welcoming. St. Kevin is one of the best performing district day school in the Turkana county.
Mr. Ambrose Oliech, patron channel 27 said that their visit to radio Akicha has added their inspiration in Journalism. Therefore, channel 27 and Bumburuka radio clubs St. Kevin may produce future Journalist if they will commit themselves to field especially news gathering and writing as well as presentation.
Channel 27 club present their news on Monday Morning live from the school Assembly and Bumburuka Radio on Fridays morning in Kiswahili.

local news – 18-3-2011 - by Lazarus Epae - Dassanech and Turkana sit together as friends

This morning, members of the Dassenech Pastoralist community, left Todonyang in a climate of friendship and celebration, after having spend the night peacefully among their long-term enemies the Turkanas from Todonyang, Kokuro and Meyen. The previous night the Turkanas had done the same thing in a Dassanech village in neighboring Ethiopia. This comes as a result of the latest peace meetings organized by Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Mission in Todonyang.
The Dassanech and Turkana pastoralist communities along the Kenya-Ethiopia border around the Omo River and Lake Turkana Delta like many other pastoralist communities have been engaging in incessant conflicts for a long time, which have caused human life and livestock losses. Despite the series of previous peace dialogue meetings facilitated by both the Ethiopian and Kenyan governments and NGO’s, conflict had been rampant.
The most recent Peace initiatives were in 2006-2008 and were facilitated by Oxfam through Riam-Riam Turkana peace network. The three-year peace was abruptly broken on 18/11/2008 when three young Dassanech killed a Turkana family of three people, including Naputo the head of the family. Despite the both government’s efforts to restore peace, the conflict took a different dimension defeating all tried previous efforts.
In the struggle many innocent people have lost their lives, especially the Turkana fishermen along the lakeshore. As many people migrated and moved away from Todoyang, a remnant of about 1000 people took refuge in the Catholic Church’s compound, where they still live up to the present day. The Church has been trying very hard to restore some peace between the two communities, as she has continued to provide other developmental project to both communities as well.
In January 2011, Todoyang Mission tried again to start a peace programme. With the help of a facilitator consultative meetings were started and a peace consensus was agreed by both parties.
The final landmark peace meeting was held on 13/03/2011 at the Todoyang Mission dispensary, under the facilitation of the Church personnel and government security forces. The communities genuinely discussed about peace and agreed to leave the past behind and start a new chapter for peace.

LOCAL NEWS – 18.03.2011 - BY ZACHEAUS OTABA - Transportation Lured in turkana

It is exactly one month since the constructor of the Kawalase bridge promised that it was to be completed in a week's time, which was supposed to be on 25th of Feb. this year. Up to today travelers and business men to and from Kakuma are not reaching their destinations due to the over flooding of Kawalase lagha.
Majority of business men especially fish traders have been forced to use extra money in transportation of their products form a cross the river to town. However people who have urgency in traveling, are forced to cross via water with their luggages since there is a cue of vehicles on both side of the bridge, which might be forced to turn back in case the situation persists.
When it was announced that, the Kawalase bridge is being repaired many people started to rejoice that it had dawned as far as transportation is concern. All in all the dream of most people in the Turkana county is completely buried after what they expected to have been forgotten is still prevailing. The question that all have to answer is for how long shall the passengers continue to suffer? May those concerned do something about the bridge as soon as possible.

LOCAL NEWS – 18.03.2011 -By Zacheaus Otaba - People warned of floods

The rains that is experienced in the region is expected to continue for the next two to three months, though relatively lower than normal. The officer in charge of Lodwar meteorological station Mr. Joshua Manuari has warned residents of Turkana county, especially those who live near the foot steps of hills to be cautious.
Speaking in his office, Mr. Manuari said that though the rains will be below normal, some areas will receive heavier rains than others, there fore there is need for people to careful. He urged residents from potential soils to plant short rains crops like sorghum.
He said that farmers should buy tanks and large water containers for water harvesting.
However, he called for the government to be cautious of water bone diseases out break and malaria. At the same time effects of the rain is being experienced at its early stage, when one man escaped death after his vehicle fallen by a tree which was up rooted by the heavy rains. Mr. john Njagi who was doing his shopping in one of the shops in Lodwar town was caught in the scene immediately he intended to leave.
He added that he believes the engine of his vehicle is safe, though the board is demolished. However well wishers helped to remove the tree in order to get the vehicle out.

LOCAL NEWS – 17.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Two weeks youth Training

The two weeks training that was being offered by IRC to the youths who are out of school, today winded up as its last day. The officer in charge Mr. Joseph Lolepo said that they had two groups of 16 each, of one finalized today and one will be finalizing tomorrow at splash guest house.
Mr. Lolepo said that they were only teaching healthy choices two, since healthy choices one is purely a bout Abstinence which is taught to youths aged between 10-13 years. He added that they targeted youths out of school because they Vulnerable.
However, he also noted that they intend to teach the youths in the seven divisions of the county starting from Kakuma, Lokichogio, Lodwar, Lokichar, Loima, Turkwel and Kalokol. He urged parents to allow their children to attend the training for it is for free of charge and it is of their benefit.
He said that the past training was of 8 modules and took two weeks, while the coming one will take 4 weeks and will be carried both in schools and out of school. He highlighted that, his organization is intending to reduce ignorance in the fight against HIV/AIDS, in the region so that youths may lead a better life.

LOCAL NEWS – 16.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - A goat buries its own kid

Tension arose the village Kanaan in the Kanamkemer IDP camp after a goat buried its own kid, hours after birth in an unclear circumstance. According to the owner of the goat Mr. Samuel Lemuya, the goat gave birth to a normal kid, which he says his wife left it to clean up. Surprisingly when she returned she found the goat stranded without a kid, only to find that it had buried it under the soil.
Lemuya who is a farmer with 14 goats, says that he is surprised to experience such like an incident for the first time since his birth. He added that he has done consultations up to where his wife comes from, the incident is very new to him. Mr. Lemuya said that he is not worried because he is a saved Christian who believes that those may be the signs of the end of the world as it was prophesied.
He took heart and said that this is normal and can happen to any body and believes that it has no effect to his family in any way.
This is happening 7 months after another incident in Nakwamekwi where a goat delivered a kid with 5 legs, though its whole body was very normal. Later it died after a period of two days.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Local news – 13.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - The faithfuls of St. Augustine's Cathedral parish were today called upon by to resist the temptations as they u

The faithfuls of St. Augustine's cathedral parish were invited to resist the temptations as they undergo this lent season in their first Sunday of lent today. Celebrating the mass, Fr. Simon Mutai addressed the three temptations of Jesus during this 40 days of fasting where he said that the church knows that the we can be tempted. Fr. Mutai said that the need for the basic needs is always a temptations and referred to how Jesus was tempted to convert stones to bread. The priest said that christ stood firm and said that man cannot live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the father.
He said that christ showed that human race can overcome the temptations. He also said that when one prays your sacrifice the time and devote to prayer.
The faithfuls were asked to reflect on reasons as to why they attend mass. He asked them to be people who believe in God who is a able God and can really help them overcome the temptations. Fr. Mutai challenged the faithfuls by asking them to give him reasons why people change churches! He said that many people have different expectation of God and when their needs are not promptly answered they lose hope and defect, he said that, that is a sign of people of little faith and thus he encouraged the faithfuls to pray hard to strengthened their faith.
The priest encouraged the Christians to be strong like the 2nd Adam who resisted the temptations and believe in God alone. He said that they are unique from all creation and that is why they can have the power of resisting temptations and preserve their dignity as human beings . He went ahead stressing on devotion to prayer, fasting what one likes most and helping the needy during this lent season.

Local news – 13.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - Wedding celebration of Koki Gilberto Epuu (A Turkana )and Ann Stefanie Coolen (Dutch) as they partake the sacra

The colorful wedding celebration of Koki Gilberto Epuu (Kenyan) and Ann Stefanie Coolen (Dutch), as they match towards the alter to receive the sacrament of Matrimony took place at St. John's Catholic church Nachukui which is an outstation of Nariokotome Parish along the lake zone of the Diocese of Lodwar, brought together different tribes , races and personalities in this big event.
Uniting the two couples in this sacrament Fr. Fernado Aquire welcomed the christian community of Nachukui to witness an unique event that was bounded in love. Fr. Fernado said that the faithfuls were witnessing the promise that Anne and Koki, will make publicly to each other. He said that they declared a mutual love and they promised to trust each other in life long.
The priest also said that, that event was unique in that place and so special because it presents a deeper secret. He went ahead saying that, that did not just unite the two couples but the two families from two countries and cultures, He said that when two paths of people cross, when two rivers unite, then there lies a deeper secret. There is an invisible hand of the father that shows us the way. The faith of koki and Ann makes them trust that what God has started in them, He will complete.
Fr. Fernado emphasized on the power of love saying that it overcomes all boundaries. He encouraged the two families and the entire community of Nachukui to support the young couple in their matrimony life. He also challenged the community to break the chains of tribalism, hate, status and unite in Love of Christ and reminded them to pray always so as to overcome the temptations of the evil one.

Local news – 5.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - Auxiliary Bishop Dominic Kimengich has been appointed as the new bishop of lodwar diocese today

The holy father, pope Benedict the xvi has accepted the retirement of Rt. Rev. Patrick Joseph Harrington as bishop of Lodwar diocese. At the same time, the holy father has appointed Rt. Rev. Dominic Kimengich as the new Bishop of lodwar diocese. Bishop Kimengich has been the Auxiliary Bishop of Lodwar. He was ordained the Auxiliary Bishop of Lodwar on 22nd March 2010.
Bishop Harrington has been Bishop of Lodwar Diocese since the year 2000. He took over from the late Bishop John Mahon, who was the first bishop of Lodwar. We thank God for the gift of bishop Harrington. During his time as the bishop of lodwar. He initiated many development project in the Diocese, especially in the area of Evangelisation. He constructed many churches and Started Radio Akicha. He also came up with the commissioning of Catechists. Now there are over 60 commissioned catechists in the Diocese. There are now 25 parishes in the Diocese of Lodwar.
We thank God for giving us such a very caring bishop, in the person of Bishop Harrington. We wish him a very happy retirement. The new changes were announced by the vatican today on Saturday 5th March at 12.00pm Roman time (2.00pm local time).
The official installation of bishop Dominic Kimengich as the new bishop of Lodwar will be announced later.

LOCAL NEWS – 5.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - Workshop on Small christian community leaders held at St. Augustine's parish hall Lodwar Today

The workshop for the small christian community leaders within St. Augustine's Cathedral parish took place today at the parish conference. The aim of the workshop was to train the leaders on leadership skills and conflict management. The workshop which was organized by the church committee was funded by the jumuiya members themselves. The workshop which was facilitatedd by commissioned Catechists Simon Lorot and Gideon Emonyang brought together 65 leaders.
Mr. Emonyang when addressing the participants said that as a church leader one has to be without blames, should be faithful, to one wife/husband, disciplined, generous, not a drunkard, not lover of money and a above all mature in faith. He also added that the leadership qualities start in the home. Mr. Emonyang said that a leader should display good morals both in his home and bring up his/her children in good morals.
Discussing on the conflicts in the small christian communities Mr. Simon Lorot, took the participants through various problems faced in their desire to live as Christians, misunderstandings, poor relationship with other churches. Mr. Lorot said that some leaders fail to deliver due to impartial involvement in small christian communities activities and in that they misled the members and lack to implement the activities of the Jumuiyas. Mr. Lorot also guided the members through analyzing their Problems and directing them into problem solving process. He said that bad leaders can be gotten rid by electing other proper leaders, attending planning meetings, involving others in decision making process,proper ways of banking,statements for documentations, visiting the people concerned, encouraging people to contribute and return in cases of credit in keeping good and clear records and above all treating emergencies with the urgency it deserves. Catechist Lorot also talked on how the small Christian communities should be inclusive to involve children as they, are also part of the families.

LOCAL NEWS – 15.3.2011 - BY SOFARI WYCLIFFE - State side football club smiles at the end of the tournament

State side football club today at prison ground celebrated their victory after beating super united Nakwamekwi and scouping the trophy by 4-1 . The tournament that started on 1st march is sponsored by gospel outreach church in process of bringing youth to christ through football.
In the first round both teams seemed to be strong in the first place until Etoot Kennedy popularly known Etoo scored the first opening goal some times before the end of first round game.
In the second round, the second, the third and fourth followed from state side which scored 4 while on the other end super united Nakwamekwi player nakwawi scored one goal.
Speaking to Akicha reporter the state side coach Mr Festus Erukudi said that he is very optimistic that his team which is composed of young players is going to do well and bring more trophies.
In the other end the referee was very much happy and said both team did very well in terms of discipline, he said the only problem during marches lies in funs who keep shouting and throwing words to the players. he suggested that the organizers of the tournament should get a security that will protect the coach,players and referees against harassment.

LOCAL SPORTS – 14.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Nakwamekwi Fc succeeds for finals

Nakwamekwi fc today crashed earth movers 2-1 in a game played at Lodwar prison's stadium. Nakwamekwi took a lead at the 20th minute through Cameroon, while earth movers equalized at the 38th minute, leading to 1-1 at the first half. Nakwamekwi through the player Koya heat the last nail on the earth movers' coffin at the 72nd minute making it 2-1 to the last whistle.
Both teams were meeting for a replay after tying yesterday in the normal time, where by the match ended at 0-0. however the penalty's results also drew at 7-7 and was resolved that they were to today, after they ran short of time.
On the other side state side walked over Kanamkemer 2-0 in a game played at Lodwar mixed play ground. Though the game had a lot of indiscipline cases, state side went through and will be facing Nakwamekwi tomorrow for finals. However though earth movers were defeated, they automatically go through position three.
The finals will kick off tomorrow at 4.00pm at prison's ground where there after awards will be given to the winners.

LOCAL NEWS - 14.03.2011 -By Zacheaus Otaba - Parents aquinted with basics on sign language at st Luke's home for the hearing impaired

There is need to ensure that the communication between parents and their children who have hearing disability is maintained while out and in school. The manager for St. Luke's home for hearing impaired Mrs. Majuma Wasike said that they are training parents sign language so that to enable them to communicate with their children fluently while they be at home.
She pointed out that people with such disability face a lot of challenges if they have no one to interpret for them. Majuma noted that the home now has a population of more than 130 pupils whom she said are getting their necessities in school. However she urged the parents to give full support to help them fight those challenges.
Speaking during their evening classes, one of the facilitators Mr Isaiah Ekaran said that, the training is scheduled to take one week and they expect to have trained more than 20 at the end of the training. He said that they normally have such like training after every two months and they do take a little number due to the few facilities they have.
He said that they wish to extend the training up to the community around the home.
He pointed out that they normally get support from well wishers and Tere Des home to help them facilitate such programs. Mr Ekaran also high lighted that they are going to award certificates of merit to the trainees after the one week's course.

LOCAL SPORTS – 12.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - The referee abandons the match before its official ending

The gospel out reach assemblies tournament took a brake today after the match between Mahon fc and earth movers backfired yesterday. The difference arose after Stanley Ngige netted a single score for earth movers through a penalty caused by the wrong play by the Mahon player at penalty area.
However, the referee who was officiating the game made a decision that has never been made hence braking the world record of abandoning the match before it came to an end. Ronald Ekeno, who was officiating the game seemed to been provoked by the Mahon fans, who started throwing abuse to him for having made that decision.
It forced the sponsor of the tournament to intervene and take the whistle to officiate the match, who was also ended it before time, after the assistant referee besieged by the Mahon fans who had lost their tempers.
However earth movers qualified for semi-finals which will be played from tomorrow. They are joining Nakwamekwi FC, state side FC and the rocks FC who had qualified before.
The Kenya football federation officials criticized the decision and said that, both the rude team and the referees may face a penalty for being indiscipline.
The finals will be played on Tuesday the 15th of march.

LOCAL NEWS – 12.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Lodwar high parents' and education day

Parents and other stake holders today joined the staff and students of Lodwar high school in celebrating their education day. The celebrations which took place at the school's compound was preside over by the bishop of the diocese of Lodwar Dominic Kimengich. Speaking during the ceremony, the bishop said that the school has high chances of doing better than it is doing now. He said that as a church and a sponsor they are going to make sure that the school gets enough support for better performance.
However the school's principal Mr. George Otieno was proud that, his teachers are doing well and the will continue to shine all over the county. He said that some of the schools in the county go down up to the min score of 4 while his school has had a great improvement since. He pointed out that the efforts that are put by his staff shows that they maintain the top position to stand a chance of being promoted to a national school.
In the same note the chair man of PTA Mr. john Nakara high lighted that the performance of the school were contributed by the efforts of both parents and teachers. He was optimistic that the school's results this year may go up and urged parents to double their support.
The ceremony was attended by stake holders from the ministry of education led by the district education officer for Turkana central Mr. Wycliffe Wamoto, the church led by bishop Kimengich who was also the chief guest and parents.
During the ceremony, the student of the year was awarded, which was done deliberately to motivate others, to work harder.

LOCAL NEWS -11.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Lodwar municipal to open a modern market in three months time

The Lodwar municipal market which has been long awaited for its completion, will be complete in three months time. The municipality's administration officer Mr. James Ekanyuk said that by now, there is too little to done for its completion.

Speaking in his office today, Mr. Ekanyuk said that once the market is complete, all hawkers in town center will be moved to the market, to reduce congestion. He said that the plots will be allocated with priority, therefore people have to pick forms from municipal office and apply for it before that time.

About street lighting Ekanyuk revealed that the japan embassy has promised ksh. 19M for Lodwar town street lighting which he said will start soon. However the officer added that, their requisition for street lighting in town from Kenya power and lighting has not been answered, hence making the council have difficulties in its planning.

On the town cleanliness, the officer admitted that it is not up to date, though they have employed a contractor to in charge of town cleaning. He promised that the municipality is going to have a close supervision, to ensure that the work is perfectly done.

Friday, March 11, 2011

LOCAL NEWS -10.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - The union of kena civil servants, turkana branch holds it third elections since its birth in the region

Civil servants in Turkana county today held their third elections of the union officials since its birth in the region. The elections which were presided by the district development officer Mr. Jeremiah apalia were conducted at the Turkana county council hall here In lodwar..
During the election, some new members were voted into the office while others were re-elected to their positions. The new panels led by the new chair person Mr. lin Kiapa wh who was in absence, Kilamboc Wycliffes elected vice chairman, peter okth secretary, while cathrin Akai is vice secretary. Others were Paul Keitany treasurer, Magdalene lotir vice treasurer, women leader Eunice Ekidor and young workers leader Obed Erukwa.
The newly members were pleased to occupy the office.
However, the re-elected secretary promised to involve all the members and collaborate with the head office for the development of the region.
The presiding officer appreciated the civil servants for the cooperation and called for prior arrangements before any elections.

LOCAL NEWS – 08.03.2011 -By Zacheaus Otaba - Women in Turkana celebrate their world women's day at st Teresa's pastoral center gardens

Women of Turkana county had good moments to celebrate for the world women's day at st Teresa's pastoral center here in Lodwar where they were able to advice to each other, especially on the issues pertaining family and leadership.

The area district commissioner Mr. Humphrey Nakitare who was supposed to be the chief guest, could not make due to some commitments. Giving a comment early in his office, Mr. Nakitare said that women area so influential and so should help to fight for insecurity in the region. He added women have a tusk of fighting for their own rights in the leadership field and representations. The DC said that security is an umbrella of other sectors like education, health and agriculture. The celebrations started at the D. C's office after being flagged off by the district officer one Mr. levy Senoga on behalf of the DC.

The district social development officer for Turkana central Mr. Anthony Kiprop, has called for women of Turkana county to arise and vie for positions especially in the county assemblies, since they may not be automatic for them.

However, the happiness of the women could not be hod, when the chairlady board of directors Kerio valley development authority Mrs. Joyce Emanikor, urged women to give full support to fellow when it comes to political top positions.

The celebrations which was attended by hundreds of women from all over the district was graced by field activities. Women had sack races, bottle races, races for the old,and leg ball between Lodwar mixed and nadir Konyen children's home, where Lodwar mixed won 2-0. women from Lorugum, Turkwel, Lokichar, Katilu and women groups within Lodwar participated. The best three winners were awarded kikois from each group.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Local news – 9.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - St. Augustine's Cathedral parish christians Mark Ash wednesday by receiving the Ashes

The christian Community of St. Augustine's cathedral parish came in large numbers today to receive the Ashes to mark the 40 days of lent season. Speaking during his homily, his lordship Bishop Dominic Kimengich called upon all christian community to devote this time in prayer, charity and
fasting to accompany our lord Jesus christ in his suffering.
His lordship encouraged the congregation to devote themselves to the people they serve for those who are in positions. He also said that when one fasts, one should not show off that she is fasting instead show generosity and commit oneself to prayer and service.
Bishop Dominic kimengich informed faithfuls that a sign of Ashes show that they are dust and in the dust they shall return and thus shows that the Christians are ready to repent and return to God our father. He said that the catholic church has given them 40 days to fast and prepare themselves for Easter so as to be worthy to join in his resurrection. His lordship encouraged the Christians to fast in what they dearly love most in this season in order to celebrate his resurrection happily.

LOCAL NEWS - 09.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - The task force on devolved government meets Turkana county leaders, at Turkana county council

The task force committee on devolved government team led by John Kirigi, today visited Turkana county to collect their memorandum and proposals on how county government should be run. The team which met all the leaders of the county, gave directions on how to come up with a directional leadership when the county government will fully come into control.
Speaking during the meeting the team's chair person Mr. John Kirigi challenged the leaders, saying that the proposals they are giving may not come automatically as they appear, since experts must go through it.
Mr. Kirigi said that by the end of March 2011, the commission would have come up with the white paper report and in June they would have draft laws, which will later be taken to the Attorney general, then parliament before the 2012 general elections.
However leaders who had a chance to present their views were able to touch on sensitive areas of interests like, considering the marginalized communities, qualities required of the council leaders, distribution of resources and methods of hooking out non performing leaders in the county.
The meeting was attended by leaders from Provincial Administration, local leaders, business men and leaders from various organizations from all over the county.

Local news – 7.3.11 - By Mary Tioko - St. Leo's Boys high school board members analyse the 2010 Examination Results at the school

St. Leo's Boys high school board members analyse the 2010 Examination Results at the school hall today. The meeting which was called by the board chairman Fr. Paul Areman was aimed at celebrating the schools good performance in the examinations and also strategising for the better performances this year. Speaking in the meeting Fr. Areman encouraged the teachers and the entire school environment to create a conducive environment for the students and plan and implement the schools activities for the good of the school.
The Principal of kakuma boys secondary school Mr. Peter Momanyi read the results of the 2010 class to the board and the members congratulated the teachers for the good performance and urged them to put more efforts and striving for the better results this year.
Addressing the board the district education officer for Turkana West Mr. Wilson Korombori said that last years district Education board started 14 new schools in the district . Mr. Korombori urged the board and the parents within the District to send their children to these school and even the existing schools . Problem of culture within the district was noted to be contributing a lot to the poor performance and schools low enrollments. Showing concern on the education of the girl child,Mr. Korombori challenged the parents and the community at large to advocate for the quality education of the girl child . The officer encouraged the community to discourage early marriages in the district. He also called upon leaders to co-operate in mobilizing the children to attend this free primary education that is provided to them.

LOCAL SPORTS – 05.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Lodwar revenge their beatings by giving loyopo 7-0 at lodwar prisons ground.

The glory out reach assemblies tournament today clogged a high note where most teams showed improvement apart from few. Lodwar high broke a record by scoring the highest, since the beginning of the tournament, by beating loyopo 7-0 at Lodwar prisons stadium.
Else where St. Kevin's played down supa united fc 1-0 at Lodwar mixed grounds this evening. The only score was netted through a penalt after the supa united defence made a blunder at the penalty area.
In the games played early today, mahon FC walked over PAG secondary FC 3-1 at prisons stadium while earth movers smashed the salvation army secondary FC 4-1 at lodwar mixed ground.
However there are two other games to be played this weekend, tomorrow earth movers will play loyopo at prisons ground while the rocks faces PAG secondary fc at lodwar mixed ground. All the games will kick off at 4.30 pm.

LOCAL NEWS – 1.3.2011 - BY SOFARI WYCLIFFE - Bishop Mahon private candidate more happy with their programme as they enroll for 2011 classes

A class of the private candidate in bishop mahon hall is very optimistic of performing this year as the good performance graph rises high each year, the school which was started in 2006 with the diocese of lodwar together with Aid link had the intention of helping vulnerable children in the society who dropped out of school due to various reasons.go back to school programme
Speaking to radio Akicha reporter in his office , HIV testing counseling counselor who helps in identifying the students in the field Mr. Thomas Ewoi said that the dioceses has really helped the candidates since the programme started. Mr. Thomas said that the performance of last year was very encouraging when four private candidates joined high school with the best student scoring 301 marks out of possible 500 marks the second scored 284 marks the third 267 while the fourth scored 259 marks among the best three in the class.
Mr. Thomas Ewoi also said that apart from children paying nothing for the programme at every two weeks they are given exam to test their ability with the library services which is free, they are also supplied with soap and jelly to supplement their personal needs to make them concentrate in their studies.
At every year they carry out the interview to have the class of the next lot of which one should be 18 years and above, must have not done KCPE before and must have left school two years ago . Mr. Thomas Ewoi was very optimistic with programme saying that it was going to help them stand for another chance in their lives.

LOCAL NEWS -06.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba -Leaders in turkana county formalized on devolution of county government

Leaders in Turkana county today underwent a one day workshop at st Teresa pastoral center, on the devolution of powers and resources to the counties, when it comes to effect.
The workshop which was sponsored by Oxfam, was facilitated by MR. kawive wambua, the executive secretary constitution and reform education consortium. Speak in the center, Mr. wambua said that the people of Turkana county today were making proposals on how their counties should be run.
However, wambua said that the exercise has been carried nicely and a small committee of six people was formed to scrutinize the proposals which will be presented to the tusk force devolution by the ministry of local government. The work shop was attended by more than 30 members representing different NGOs, CBOs, government sectors and private sector. The tusk force will be visiting turkana county on Wednesday 9th of may, where it will collect the views of the people of Turkana at the county council hall starting from 8.30am.

LOCAL SPORTS – 02.03.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Earth movers pocket three points while kanamkemer draws with mahon fc

Earth movers FC played down Lodwar high school in a game played at Lodwar mixed play ground. Titus Ekidor netted the single goal of Earth movers at the 15th minute of the first half, putting his team up by one score to nil.
Both teams were determined but lost most chances to score at the rest of the play. However the Earth movers acting coach said that his boys showed good game, though they expected more scores.
However the Lodwar high school team coach was optimistic that his boys will do well in the next games to come.
Else where Kanamkemer played a draw against Mahon FC by scoring 2-2 in a game played at Lodwar prisons stadium.
The tournament which is sponsored by Glory Out reach Assemblies, started yesterday 1st march and will end on 12th march. The tournament is divided into 3 pools. Pool A. has Kanamkemer, Mahon, P.A.G. and State sides. Pool B has Lodwar high, Loyopo, Earth movers and the S.A Nawoitorong, while pool C. has Nakwamekwi, St. Kevis and Nawoitorong village.
In the games played yesterday state side smashed P.A.G. By playing them 6-2 while Nawoitorong was poured 4-0 by St. Kevin.