Turkana: Turkana Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus on Wednesday hosted a high-level delegation from UN Women's Peace and Security Unit, Peace Winds Japan, Toyota Kenya Foundation, and CFAO Mobility to discuss the pending launch of the Kalobeyei Modern Garage. Once commissioned, the facility is expected to serve as a public asset for economic transformation in the Kalobeyei area and across the wider county.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project, initiated in 2022 and completed in late 2024, is awaiting official handover to the Turkana County Government. Acknowledging the project's significance, Dr. Erus commended its integrated design, which includes a capacity-building component aimed at long-term sustainability. "As a County, we are fully committed to ensuring that the facility is handed over and launched," said Dr. Erus. "I am pleased that our teams are actively working on finalising the necessary protocols."
He expressed optimism that the garage, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by Peace Winds Japan, Toyota Kenya Foundation, and CFAO Mobility, would be launched in the next two months. The Deputy Governor reaffirmed that the County will adopt a cross-departmental approach in managing the facility post-handover, with the departments of TVET, Enforcement, Lands and Physical Planning, and Environment expected to play key roles in ensuring sustainable service delivery.
UN Women's Peace and Security Unit lead, Hellen Mucino, confirmed that coordination was ongoing and that funds had been allocated for the official launch event. She emphasised UN Women's commitment to continued collaboration with the County Government. Turkana County Attorney Ruth Emanikor echoed the importance of partnership, noting that the joint effort ensures adherence to all legal frameworks governing the handover and operationalisation of public facilities.
Once operational, the Kalobeyei Modern Garage will offer training and work-based opportunities to women and youth from both host and refugee communities. The facility is designed to blend technical skills development with peacebuilding and livelihood creation, contributing to long-term resilience in the region. UN Women Group procurement officer Catherine Karanja was present. County Officials attendees were Locham Gamoe - Deputy County Secretary, David Eyanae - Director Revenue, Steven Eregae - Director TVETS, and Joyce Akai - Legal Officer.