President Ruto has pledged that Kenya must never again be torn apart by divisive and ethnic-based politics. He said that at the Turkana Tourism and Cultural Festival in Lodwar.
The President explained that he assembled a broad-based Cabinet to represent all Kenyans, regardless of their political affiliations or communities. “We reject tribal and discriminatory politics,” he stated. “We will work tirelessly to unite all Kenyans and build a prosperous future for everyone.”
The Tobong’u Lore festival, now in its eighth year, has become a significant cultural event, showcasing traditional dances, music, foods, and crafts from the Turkana and neighboring communities in Kenya, Burundi, Ethiopia, Uganda, and South Sudan.
President Ruto also acknowledged recent collaboration between leaders from West Pokot and Turkana to combat banditry and cattle rustling. He urged Beatrice Askul, Cabinet Secretary for the East African Community and Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, to develop the Kerio Valley Development Authority’s 50,000 acres along the Turkana-West Pokot border for irrigation. He noted that utilizing this land for farming could transform the area into a food-producing region and help reduce lawlessness along the border.
“When locals can farm through irrigation, they will focus on their farms, leaving no space for lawlessness,” he added.
Additionally, President Ruto directed Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano to resolve ongoing conflicts between Lake Turkana fishermen and the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). He instructed KWS officers in the Lake Turkana Basin to support rather than hinder local fishermen, ensuring peaceful working relations.
Ruto further announced a new government initiative: the establishment of the Home of Human Origins Museum and Science Park in Turkana. Planned for Namortunga Kalokol, this world-class facility will focus on scientific research, cultural tourism, and eco-tourism. Ruto highlighted Kenya’s status as the cradle of humankind, with iconic discoveries like the Turkana Boy and the world’s oldest stone tools.
“The museum and science park will let visitors journey back to humanity’s origins,” he said.
President Ruto emphasized that Turkana’s rich natural heritage, including unique wildlife, UNESCO sites, and the vast Lake Turkana Basin, offers enormous potential for tourism and research. He said the project would drive infrastructure investment, expand tourism options, and establish Turkana as a destination for researchers, nature lovers, and adventurers.
“The community drives growth,” he concluded. “Our development efforts prioritize local residents, ensuring they directly benefit through job creation and improved livelihoods.”
He added that a sustainable approach would position Kenya as a global leader in scientific discovery and specialized tourism, supporting economic growth in Turkana and beyond.
In support, Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai committed to backing government efforts to combat banditry, promote food security, and develop Turkana. Marsabit Governor Ali Mohamud, officials from South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Burundi, and several MPs also attended the event.
