The County Government of Turkana, in partnership with the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), has intensified efforts to prepare residents of Letea in Turkana West for the election of members to the upcoming Community Conservancy Board.
The initiative includes stakeholder engagement forums, capacity-building sessions, and the development of a community conservancy action plan aimed at ensuring a smooth and lawful establishment of the conservancy management structure.
Speaking during the engagements, Director of Natural Resources Pauline Ng’oli said the activities are intended to equip residents with the knowledge needed to participate effectively in the election process and support the successful operation of the conservancy.
“Both the County Government and NRT have chosen to work closely with administrative structures, local institutions, community leaders and residents to establish a board that will effectively manage the upcoming conservancy,” said Ng’oli.
Residents welcomed the programme, noting that the training sessions had enhanced their understanding of the conservancy model and prepared them to elect capable leaders.
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“We now have a better understanding of the community conservancy model and its operations. As a community, we feel ready for the elections,” said Mariao Peyonon, a resident of Letea.
NRT Team Lead Moses Kinapu emphasized the need for transparency and fairness during the election process, adding that residents would be free to choose their leaders either through direct ballot voting or consensus.
Kinapu also shared lessons from established conservancies such as Nasalot, where community-led governance structures have contributed to conservation efforts and improved local livelihoods.
The County Government and NRT are promoting the community conservancy model in Letea and other parts of Turkana West as a strategy to strengthen environmental conservation, enhance sustainable resource management, and create new livelihood opportunities for local communities.
