Turkana Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus has reiterated the Countys’ commitment to promoting child protection and eliminating gender-based violence (GBV), calling on partners to intensify their support towards the initiative.
Dr. Erus made the remarks during a stakeholders’ forum in Kakuma, held as part of a wider five-day development tour of Turkana West and Lokichoggio by Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai and top county officials.
The event, which focused on strengthening child protection and gender-sensitive programming, drew a cross-section of development partners and government actors at the county and sub county levels.
“We are under firm instruction from Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai to prioritise child protection and the fight against GBV,” said Dr. Erus. “As we seek stronger partnerships, the County Government has already taken steps by establishing child-friendly health services and GBV help desks at health facilities across Turkana.”
The Deputy Governor shared moving accounts of child neglect and GBV survivors, underscoring the long-term psychological trauma endured by victims. He highlighted emerging threats, particularly within refugee settlements like Kakuma, where shrinking donor funding continues to strain efforts to safeguard vulnerable groups.
Dr. Erus challenged stakeholders to urgently identify and respond to the root causes of GBV and child rights violations, stressing the need for joint, community-based action to create lasting solutions.
He also cited the newly launched Kalobeyei Modern Automotive Garage—a county-partnered project unveiled by the Governor—as a proactive GBV prevention model.
“By creating employment opportunities for women and youth, we are tackling the economic vulnerabilities that often fuel GBV,” he said.
The forum was attended and addressed by CECMs Wangiros James (Trade, Gender, Youth Affairs and Tourism) and Leah Audan Lokaala (Education and Social Protection), along with Mollen Onderi (Deputy Director, Gender) and Christine Nalemsekon (Sub-County Administrator, Turkana West).
Stakeholders present included representatives from the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) – Turkana Chapter, UNHCR, FilmAid Kenya, IRC, the State Department of Children’s Services, and Finn Church Aid.
