Local news – 27.2.11 - By Mary Tioko - “You cannot serve two masters at a time”: The Auxiliary Bishop Dominic Kimengich Warns the faithfuls

His Lordship the Auxiliary bishop Dominic Kimengich today called upon christian faithfuls of St. Augustine's cathedral to put their trust in God in their lives. Speaking during his homily, the Auxiliary bishop asked the faithfuls to serve God alone in order to qualify to inherit the kingdom of God.
Giving example of the love of a mother to her children, His lordship kimengich said that, the love of God to us is greater than that of a mother to a child. He explains how God almighty loves his children and requests them to put their trust in him in all they do. He gave example of prisoners who are jailed for various crimes and added that their parents still love them and also God the father Loves them most. He said that God's Love is so great that we cannot compare with motherly love and urged the faithfuls to put all their difficulties unto the lord who is able and can solve all our problems.
The Auxiliary bishop said that love is not feelings but the choice we make and called upon all to listen to the voice of God of love and in that they will have love. He also urged the Christians to be calm in their lives and let the spirit of the lord to speak in their hearts and bring them peace, love and unity. He added that God wants us to be happy in our lives and be people of faith who serve him alone. He said that if we serve him alone we will receive the happiness we want in our lives.
His lordship invited all the Christians to put all their troubles unto the holy Eucharist when it is raised during consecration and that God the father will wash away all their troubles and bless them abundantly. He once again reminded them to seek the kingdom of God first and all the rest of the things they want will follow.

Local news – 26.2.11 - By Mary Tioko - 42 Small christians community leaders trained at St. Michael's Napetet

The leaders who were drawn from 42 small christian communities at St. Michaels's church Napetet converged at the church compound where they were taught on types of leadership, qualities of good and bad leaders and responsibilities of a good leader. Facilitating the one day workshop, Fr. Simon Mutai , Mr. Simon Lorot , and Mr. Gideon Emonyang who were the facilitators of the day discussed on conflicts arising in the small christian communities and how to manage them.
Fr. Simon Mutai encouraged the small christian communities to have projects that can enable them become self reliant in order to deal with day to day happenings of the group.
Also mentioning on the evangelisation Mr. Emonyang explained to the leaders how evangelization can be realized by all by giving relevant examples of people who lived their faith. Mr. Lorot talked on the church ministries mentioning on the lectors of the word, Extras-ordinary Eucharistic ministers and the ministers of the sick/burials.
Fr. Mutai encouraged the leaders to strengthen the spirituality of the small christian communities by following the 7 steps of bible reflection in discussions. The priest also touched on the sacraments of matrimony, family life, baptism, Eucharist and above all the prayer life not forgetting the rosary.
The participants were encouraged to improve the participation of the young people and women in the leadership of the church by involving them in decision making processes. The leaders put down the action plans that hey will implement and guide them in the implementation process and later evaluation of their plans.

Local news -24.2.2011 -By Edaan Danie - 80 IDP FAMILIES GET PLOTS IN RED BURNER

Eighty families got plots early today in Nakwamekwi Internally Displaced Persons Camp where councilor, Christopher Odhiambo, who is in charge of Town planning and area councilor, Concepta Anam were present. The civic leaders urged the residents of the camp to live peacefully and assured them that they will get plots. The leaders were responding to a call for the resettlement of the IDPs that has taken three years now.
The ministry of lands represented by the survey team from Lodwar, assured the residents that they will allocate plots for three days starting today until all the households get a piece of land measuring 50 by 100 meters. The Municipal Council had allocated 100 hectares of land for the resettlement in Nakwamekwi and its optimistic that this will be done in a fair, free and open way.
The Chairperson of the camp Michael Areman cited improper settlement of the residents which has made it difficult for plots to be allocated in a smooth manner. He added that the council will create road reserves in the camp to allow easy access and administration of other important services to the residents of Red burner. The residents maintained calm and assured the officers allocating land cooperation until the exercise is accomplished.

Four Christians welcomed officially to receive the sacrament of Holy communion

The Christians of St. Augustine's cathedral parish who are allowed to receive the holy communion received four more members to their team for those who receive the communion at Mass.
At the beginning of mass the catechist of St. Augustine's cathedral parish Mr. Gideon Emonyang started by welcoming all to the special mass and asked them to accompany the priest in celebrating this special mass as they also bless the vehicles and all means of Transport of the Christians including their legs to enable christ to accompany them in their pleasures and work.
Speaking during his homily The parish administrator Fr. Francis Teo said that christ today calls all Christians and the entire human race to shan from violence and repay bad deeds for good order for one to inherit the kingdom of God whom we all aspire to inherit. Fr. Teo said that christ teaches us today to renounce violence and preach peace and love to all. He challenged the faithfuls that no one can build by destroying thus urged all of them to build he kingdom of God in this earth. He called upon all to widen their capacity of extending love and mercy to others.
Fr. Teo also said that the gospel of today teaches us to discover God as our father who loves us. He invited all to bring peace, Love in our hearts. The four members were allowed to receive the holy communion and later after mass all means of Transport was blessed including all our legs that enable us to reach various places.

LOCAL NEWS – 19.02.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Residents of Turkana especially business men commuting to and from Kakuma have all reasons to smile afte

Turkana residents have all reasons to smile following the modern construction of the bridge which has been hindering their movement especially businessmen.
The project which is funded by the government of Kenya through the department of Kenya national high way authority (KENHA) has been a public out cry of the rivers in the region being swept away by seasonal rivers in rainy seasons. Among the bridges frequently affected is the Kawalase bridge along Lodwar-Kakuma high way.
The engineer in charge of construction Mr. Vincent Omondi said that apart from making sure that the bridge is perfectly done, his company has also created temporary jobs for more than 40 locals.
However Mr. Omondi noted the bridge is in its final touches after laying a strong foundation to sustain the strength of water, considering the signs showing the approaching rainy season.
He was pleased to note that the long journey of bridge construction will come to an end on Sunday next week.

LOCAL NEWS – 19.02.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Elected development committees in each district to monitor the projects sponsored by UNICEF and wash Ken

Various development committees which have been formed in various districts to monitor the projects of the schools selected for water and sanitation have been urged to make sure, that they meet the set dead line immediately the projects kick off.
The district development officer for Turkana Central Mr. Jeremiah Apalia said that the work of the projects should be a collective responsibility to the whole community. He was pleased to highlight that money has been availed and it is only waiting for disbursement.
However he noted that by the end of the 12 months set, all schools selected would have had clean water either by pipes, shallow wells or solar. He added that 97 schools are targeted all over Turkana with a population of more than 196,000 children.
The officer also noted that Namukuse from the Lake region has been fully funded by the government of Kenya, hence moving its funds by UNICEF to Nakukulas in the Turkana south.
The project is funded by partners, that government of Kenya, Lutheran world federation among others.

LOCAL NEWS - 17.02.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Workshop on bakeries by women programme comes to an end

The workshop which meant to a quint the members with bakeries in the diocese of Lodwar that has been going on for the last three days, today marked its end.
During their third and final day, the members were taught on how to make jam out of ground nuts and oranges.
Facilitating the procedure Mrs. Alice Samuel Lomilio, said that the procedures were not very much different from those of making it using other materials like tomatoes and paw paws.
They were also taken through on how to make jam using ground nuts, led by Mrs. Elizabeth Lomoe.
Closing the ceremony, the organizer of the training Mrs. Rose Anjela Nakoi, urged the members to put all that they learnt into practice for their benefit both in the market and society.
The training was officially ended by members singing songs that praised the work of their hands and contribution of the diocese's leaders to their on goings.

LOCAL NEWS – 18.02.11 - BY EMMANUEL LOPUS - Scouts begin community service in Napetet

Scouts in turkana county began their community service in Napetet village today by renovating Regina Lokure's house a blind woman in mission B. According to scouts area commissioner Mr. Davidddd Etyang 4 schools were invited for the service, Kawalase primary school, Lodwar mixed,Lodwar girls and Kanamkemer primary school. The Area Commissioner added that they were doing community service which is voluntary in preparation for the scouts founders day which is usually celebrated on 22nd Feb every year. He promised that the house renovation will take 2 days which will end tomorrow. Mr. Etyang stressed on the founders day which he said will be celebrated on Sunday instead of Monday to allow pupils and students to continue with their studies as usual.
The area commissioner mentioned a few challenges facing the scout movement which finance was the first priority. Onn finance he mentioned of a trip to Nyeri to celebrate the founders day which is impossible due to lack of finance and support Head teachers also seem in co-operative to the scout duties by not giving scouting enough support in various schools in Turkana county at large.
Alice Moru Lodwar mixed pupil, Rhoda Napas Kawalase pupil and Imelda Kapua Kanamkemer pupil were not behind to show their seriousness in scouting where they said they are fully committed to scout movement and to ensure that surroundings are clean always.
Jared Lorot one of the Napetet residents present in the scene of the service appreciated the work done by the scouts in Turkana county and prayed unto God to give them strength to continue helping the more communities.

LOCAL NEWS – 16.02.2011 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Workshop on bakeries carry its first practicals

Members attending the baking workshop that is being carried at st. Augustine's cathedral parish hall in Lodwar, today carried their first practicals on how to make jam out of tomatoes, pawpaws and lemons.
Facilitated by Mrs. Elizabeth Lomoe, the members were taught systematic procedures of making jams, in order to come up with best results.
However Mrs. Lomoe asked the members to keen and participate in practicals for them to able to achieve the best results when they go back to their various places of work.
Tomorrow members are expected to undergo jam making using ground nuts, of which they are expected to be able to fight the challenges that may be encountered and be competent in the market.

LOCAL NEWS – 16.02.11 - By Zatocheaus Otaba -Youths with waiting cards to make follow ups

Youths of Turkana Central and Loima districts have been urged to make follow up of their identity cards in the district registration of persons' office.
The district registration of persons offier, for Turkana Central who is also in charge of Loima district Mr. Tom Mbotela, today has distant his office with the allegations of reluctance that were made by members of the public, during the visit of the deputy prime minister Hon Musalia Mudavadi.
Mr. Mbotela said that since October 2009 up to date, more than 200 identity cards are still lying in his office, awaiting collection by the owners. He added that for the whole month of January, only 101 identity cards have been collected, according to his records. The officer highlighted that during the month of January, 188 youths were veted while more than 30 others were replacements and change of particulars. He was pleased to note that, high numbers of youths is expected tomorrow when they will be carrying veting.
However he said that the changes that were made by the head office are now implemented.
He called upon those who wish to replace their identity cards to visit the office from Monday to Friday for assistance.
Mbotela asked all those who have any doubt with his office to visit it in person so that to get clear information. This month's vetting will carried tomorrow the 17th of February at the district commissioner's office as from 8.00am.

LOCAL NEWS – 13.02.11 - By Mary Tioko - The faithfuls of St. Augustine's cathedral parish urged to keep the Ten Commandments

The christian faithfuls were ugred yestrady in a mass that was celebrated at St. Augustine's Cathedral to keep the ten commandmets and guard it well in their endeavours to bring the light of christ in the world and to do the will of God.
Speaking during his homily Fr. John Kizito Manzi said that the law which is the ten commandments if followed well helps people to live happily in the family life as many cases of disappointments occur when the this law is broken. Fr. Manzi emphasised on the sacraments which he said foster the ten commandments.
The priest when ahead mentioning on the sacramet of matrimony which he said is widely abused by the various families living argony on the couples just because of not living as per the vows taken on that important day of ones life. He encouraged the faithfuls especially those who have recieivd the sacrament of matrimony to live their vows and eventually happy lives in their various families. The priest reflected on how people feel, think and act when intrepreting the ten commandments and said that, when people go against the commandments they destroy others people's lives.
Fr. Manzi said that God has given as the freedom of choice and the ability to choose between the good and bad things and he expects us always to choose the right way. He said that the ten commandments unite us with our neigbours and God. He also said that christ came to fuifil these laws, he encouraged the faithfuls to shun from doing evil and embrace love not sacrifices which he said is the desire of our Lord Jesus christ.

Local news – 15.2.11 - By Mary Tioko - Parents of Lodwar mixed Primary school in Turkana county met to elect school management

The parents of Lodwar mixed primary school in Turkana county met to elect school management committee for 2011 today.The parents who were wrapped up early in the morning by courtesy of the school headteacher Mr. Timothy Kikete Wabuya to attend to this important meeting came in large numbers to elect the committee members.
The parents who were 600 in number sat patiently to listen to the roles of school management committee as said by the representative of District Education officer for Central Mrs. Jophine Nasambu Walela, Mrs. Walela who is also incharge of free primary and secondary education in Central thanked the school for performing well in the National examinations managing to take 3 pupils to national schools,
Mentioning on the outgoing team and welcoming the new team to manage the school the former and now re-elect chairman of the school management committee Mr. Immanuel Imana Ichor urged the parents to develop interest in the management of the school and make sure that the children are brought up in good morals in school irrespective of their gender and social status.
The elected members were as follows; The chairman is Immanuel Imana Ichor, Secretary Timothy Kikete Wabuya and the treasurer being Jennifer Tioko. The committee were also given other five representatives to help in monitoring the progress of their children in school. These are, Mark Nakain representing parents of std. 1 , Michael Peikai std.2, Purity Ngetich std. 3, Judith Namachanja Std.4., Christine Edapal std. 5, Immanuel Ichor std.6, Jennifer Tioko std. 7, and Peter Okech std.8. The Parents were also urged to support nursery schools teachers for better formation of their children.

LOCAL NEWS – 14.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Property worth thousands of shillings brought down by fire at soweto

A fire suspected to be caused by litter which was burnt by children, brought down three houses belonging to one family at Soweto, leaving the six members homeless.
According to the owner of the home Mr. john Kapokho, there was none at home during the time of the incident.
The incident left the neighbors helplessly watching since the fire was being accelerated by the wind, which facilitated the fast movement of fire from one house to another.
Neighbours were forced to empty their close house in fear of being caught by fire.
The Lodwar police boss mr. Evans Omuga who visited the site said that they have not managed to get the right information about the cause of the fire immediately, but promised to carry investigation to know the cause of the fire.

LOCAL NEWS – 13.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Let us be development conscious director of Geothermal station in Nakuru tells turkana leaders

The leaders of Turkana have been urged to take the life of the people as a very important aspect in whatever they do. Speaking St. Michael's Napetet in Kawalase, the director Nakuru geothermal Mrs. Rhoda Loyor, said that as a leader one should take himself or herself equal to anybody in the community.
However, the director called for the Turkana people to learn to appreciate the services that are offered to them by their leaders. She insisted that the turkana should remain united and have one voice when it comes to decision making, especially on issues that affect the development of the region.
At the same time the member of parliament for Turkana central Hon. Ekwe Ethuro insisted that leaders should sacrifice most of their time to serve the people under them.
During the harambee a total of 349,000 shillings was raised with the area MP donating 50,000 shillings while Mrs. Loyor contributed 40,000 shillings in aid of expansion of St Michael catholic church Napetet.

Local News - 13.01.2011 - By Emmanuel Lopus - Mahon FC draws 3-3 with Earthmovers at a friendly match played at Kawalase primary school playing

Mahon FC Napetet drew 3-3 with Earthmover at a friendly match at Kawalase primary school playing grounds today evening. Earthmover's were the first to score through the player Bellamy Ajuat after which officer Jared equalized for Mahon FC with a header outside eighteen.
The same player Bellamy Ajuat scored the second goal after getting a very good cross from Isaac Ekadeli. Nelson Homework made the going 2-2 with a penalty kick after Jared koono played roughly inside the penalty area.
Later on Omar Mohamed scored the third goal for Earthmover's when Mahon FC defenders made a blunder inside the penalty area. Mahon FC reacted and scored the third goal through Gregory Lomala famously known as Destroyer and the match came to an end according to the referee of the day David Lodoso. GO! GO! Our local footballers and soon we will see you in the international matches!

Local news – 12.2.2011 - by sofari wycliffe -Turkana county interschool indoor games

The Turkana county interschool indoor games that started yesterday ended today leaving st.kevins secondary school happy for taking position one in almost all the games
School that came for the interschool competition were St. Leo secondary school St. Francis Xaviour Katilu, Turkana Girls Secondary School, Lodwar High school, RCEA lokori,Salvation Army lokitaung, PAG Mlimani Secondary School salvation army Nawoitorong secondary school and the hosting center st.kevins secondary school.
According to the result by the judges basketball boys was taken position one by St. Kevinsssss Secondary school basketball girls was taken by our ladies secondary school, Handball boys was taken by st.Kevins, basketballs girls was also taken by st.kevins secondary school and in the cross country the best Boy was from R.C.E.A LOKORI.the second one was fSt. Leo. Leo secondary school and the third was a boy from St. Kevins. In girls race the first position and the second was taken by all two girls from kainuk mixed secondary school.
The provincial is yet not known but according to a source he said it can take place in one schools in Kitale. Mr bongok is encouraging the students to take part in curriculum activities because it helps a lot in life and also in class in day to day life.

LOCAL NEWS – 11.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - The wash programme workshop enters its second day today

The wash programme training that has been going on at St. Augustine's conference hall, completed its second day today. The district education officer for Turkana central, Mrs Patricia Ekadeli, who was the coordinator of the programme challenged the participants that all the activities on wash in schools will be monitored to ensure that they are implemented.
However she called for immediate implementation in order to reduce the risk of accumulation of activities, that may over throw this important activity. The officer warned the head teachers whose schools will not act immediately, that they may face demotion, because it is a total show that they cannot perform hence they need to be replaced by the active ones.
At the same time, the district public health officer for Turkana central, Mr. Innocent Sifuna challenged the teachers to involve pupils in the implementation of these projects. He said that this will motivate them more, and give room for them to contribute on the new developments. He said that the pride of the pupils will be noticed when they will be allowed to participate as part of the stake holders.
He urged the participants to give more input on their action plans as they implement their plans. The meeting is expected to end tomorrow with a race which will be a demonstration on how to trigger the project in the grass roots.

LOCAL NEWS – 10.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Training of trainees on WASH programme takes place at the st augastin's parish hall

The training of trainees is taking place at St Augustin's parish hall here in lodwar. The training is targeting to reduce cases of in hygiene and lack of water in schools within the district.
During the opening of the session, the medical officer of health for turkana central Dr. Gilchrist Lokoel said that he is pleased, because the trainees are people who are learned and that they will take the right message to the people in the grass roots.
He said that most people in Turkana are suffering and even die due to ignorance. He pointed out of what happened in 2009 where 7 people lost their lives in the district through cholera out break. The Dr. warned that he would not be glad to see these happen again, after getting all this knowledge.
At the same time, the district public health officer, Mr. Innocent Sifuna said that UNICEF and WASH Kenya will ensure that all the selected schools will get water through construction of tanks and installation of piped water.
He said, ten school were targeted in this first phase of six months. Mr. Sifuna urged the Tots to take care of the tanks and make sure that always water that is contained is clean.
The training is bringing together head teachers and other personnel in the education sector and is expected to end on Saturday.

Local news - 9.1.2011 - By Sofari Wycliffe - Baptism is not enough Fr.Cephalo tells christians of Risen Christ Nakwamekwi

The parish priest of Risen Christ Nakwamekwei Fr. Raphael Cephalo challenged the Christian today in mass that baptism is not enough in the Christian faith but also Christian related actions.
Fr. Cephalo in his homily asked the Christians to pray for southern Sudan as they start their voting for the referendum today and will last for a week. He said the Christian missionary who had worked in Sudan experienced some challenges and thus need their prayers.
The priest encouraged the Christians to emulate the life of Jesus Christ who accepted to be baptized with sinners and he never excluded himself from others and also said that the fact that Jesus was born from a humble background makes him know our problem more and Christian should look unto him for help.
Fr. Cephalo challenged the Christians to stand by the first decision they made during the baptism when they accepted to follow Jesus Christ in there personal life and said that baptism is the beginning of a journey. He said Christian should be prepared for Christian life and encouraged them to grow physically at the same time spiritually. He also said that christians have to follow the voice of God in order to achieve eternal life.

L0CAL NEWS – 08.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Civil servants urged by the minister to perform or face interdiction

The civil servants have been asked to give better services to Kenyans through sincere working but not through favor. The minister for immigration and registration of persons Otieno Kajwang yesterday said that all civil servants have to work as per the regulations stated in performance contract.
The minister who was responding to the claims made by local leaders of the Turkana county about the reluctant in the office of registration of persons in the district, promised that he is going to monitor the working of his officers right from the lowest level to the headquarters.
He said that every Kenyan has a right to better services from any office all over the country.
The minister said that lack of identity cards makes many Kenyans miss jobs at their right time, giving the example of the past Kenya administration police recruitment exercise, where others were locked out.
He admitted that some delays are caused by the decrease in the productivity of the machines from 60,000 to 10,000 identity cards per month. Kajwang added that the production materials has also become rare in the markets, hence forcing the ministry to sign contracts with other new companies to supply the materials.
Mr. Kajwang gave a note that, none performing personnel should be ready to face interdiction in case they are not ready to be productive. The minister made this utterance when he met the Turkana local leaders at the Turkana county council hall yesterday during the deputy prime minister musalia mudavadi's visit in the region to assess the rate of hunger and drought in the region.

Local news – 7.2.11 - By Mary Tioko - The catholic secretariate were today told by Fr. Elias Ngafya to examine their relationship with God and with on

The chemical Dependency counselor in Asumbi treatment centre Fr. Elias Ngafya in his parting shot today called upon the diocesan staff to make right their relationship with God and with one another. Fr. Ngafya said this when he was celebrating the Monday mass at St. Thomas chapel in company of Fr. Geoffrey Nakutan and Fr. Cosmas Longor.
Fr. Ngafya said that individuals always find reasons of not fulfilling their responsibilities and urged them to have hope, faith and good relationship with God at all times. He added that in prayer the staff can find renewed strength of carrying out their activities. He said that unreflective life is not worth living. He thus encouraged the staff to be optimistic in what they do less they will miss meaning in life. The priest told the staff to be in the box and think always outside the box in order to be at peace with one another.
When given a chance Fr. Geofrey Nakutan called upon the holy spirit to give the staff a new spirit of service so that they can take the responsibilities they are given by God in action and that they may always do God's will in whatever they are to be the sign of God's presence.
In his vote of thanks to Fr. Elias, Fr. Cosmas Longor thanked him for the information on drug and substance in all those he met in his various workshops to the staff of the Diocese of Lodwar. Fr. Cosmass took the opportunity of thanking Bishop PatrickHarrington and his Auxiliary Bishop Kimengich for giving the staff the chance of Learning more from the counselor. He also appreciated the help from the medical Co-coordinator Sr..Margret Twommy and the co-coordinator of Talbot center Fr. Geofrey nakutan for inviting Elias to give the talk in the diocese and hoped that the staff will put it into practice and live as living examples of changaa in the socoiety and Turkana County at large.

LOCAL NEWS – 07.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Musalia Mudavadi visits Turkana to assess the rate of hunger and drought in the region

Deputy Prime minister and minister for local government Musalia Mudavadi today visited Turkana District to assess the rate of hunger and drought in the District.
The minister who was accompanied by Ministers for immigrations and registrations of persons Otieno Kajwang, Minister for regional Development Fred Gumo Ass. Min for forestry and Wildlife Joseph Nanok and Mohamud Mohamed, Mp Litole, Murgor, Ethuro, AP commander Kinuthia Mongweu and four Permanent Secretaries from various Ministries.
The minister had a chance to meet local leaders at the Turkana county council hall, where by issues of insecurity, poor infrastructure among others were raised.
During the meeting the leaders representatives presented their grievances to the minister which included boundary conflicts, cattle rustling and net working.
The minister assured the residents that the government is setting a side funds to repair the Kitale-lodwar highway soon. He said that the world bank gave a fund of 300M to survey the road and a full report has been given to the govt to where the bridges are to be constructed.
He also added that the govt will revive all the projects that have became dormant in the region to save the situation.
On food distribution, the minister said that the govt has constructed three departments to give lorries that will help food distribution in the region. He said that Kenya Army, Administration police and NYS will give their lorries to ferry food in the country of which every district will get one lorry to help in the transfer.

Local news – 6.2.11 - By Mary Tioko - St. Kevin's Secondary school animate mass at St. Augustine's Cathedral Parish

The students of St. Kevin's secondary school accompanied by their head teacher Bro. Louis and the entire school fraternity today animated the holy mass at St. Augustine's cathedral parish with lively hymns. Addressing the students during the mass His lordship Bishop Patrick Harrington reminded the students and the entire school management that they have started a year and he wished them God's blessings in their endeavors.
When addressing the students, his lordship noted the good performance of the school despite the various challenges faced in the limited resources in terms of intake of form ones against the high population of the school. The bishop said that the school does well and urged all those who managed to qualify to be called in the school to study very hard to achieve the desired results. He encouraged the students to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world in all that they do in the school compound, in their homes, families and among their peers to bring the light of Christ to all and make the world a better place to live in.
Also in his homily the bishop encouraged the faithfuls of St. Augustines cathedral to try to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world in their various professions in order to be the followers of christ. He said that saint are the living examples of people who tried to live as per his commandments and later canonized as saints and added that they too can follow their foot steps and bring the light of christ to all they meet in the society.
His lordship encouraged all to be people of integrity , have faith and honesty in their places of work, may it be in self employment or employed to bring the light of christ in whatever they do. He urged them to see the gospel inall they do. He encouraged them to do what they can, be the followers of Jesus in wherever they will be in the coming week and show the light of christ always.

Local news – 6.2.2011 - by Sofari Wycliffe - St. Mary's Kalokol Catholic church faithfuls were called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the

The Christians at St. Mary's Kalokol catholic church today shared a challenging sermon from Fr. process Temu of Kalokol parish, on being the salt of the earth and the light of the world in their day to day lives.
In his homily, the parish priest challenged the Christians to be the salt of the earth and bring taste to the christian life. Giving the importance of salt in human life, the priest said that it adds taste to the food. He also said that the salt preserves food from going bad and so signifying Christian life of the salt, Christians should use their Christianity for the betterment of the community and others in order to bring positive impact to their life.
Giving the example of light Fr. Temu emphasized that as human being need light in their day to day lives, Christians should be the light that bring positive impact in the Christian life just as Jesus said he is the light of the world. He further said that even in our day to day life we have eyes but without light at night we are unable to know what we are doing and where we are going. He told the Congregation to be the light of the world and even at the odd hour when others need help we should step in and help. he urged the Christians to help to take away spiritual poverty and rather look unto the Saviour on everything they do.

LOCAL NEWS – 06.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - The Auxiliary bishop of the diocese of lodwar conducts a mass meeting with prisoners at lodwar Gk prisons

It was a pleasure for prisoners and the staff of the lodwar Gk prisons to join Auxiliary bishop Dominic Kimengich for a Sunday mass, to share the message of being the salt and light of the world.
The bishop who was accompanied by the parish administrator of St. Augustine's Fr. Francis Teo were joined by officer in charge of the Gk prisons Mr. Gerald Ongume and welcomed by catechist in charge of the prisons Mr. Brendam Etoot.
The mass which was conducted at the Gk prisons compound was meant also to assess the development in prisons that the diocese is involved directly or indirectly. During the mass, bishop Kimengich promised that the diocese will construct at least a structure at prisons to be used during masses other than conducting it under direct sun heat.
He preached the message of reconciliation among prisoners while in or after being freed from prisons and advised them to shun from revenge for their enemies and always pray for togetherness.

LOCAL NEWS - 06.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Chiefs trained on small claim courts and formal laws at St. Teresa pastoral center

Training on how to improve on small claim courts was concluded today at St. Teresa pastoral center here in Lodwar. The workshop which was organised by the catholic justice and peace commission of the Diocese of Lodwar under the facilitation of Mr. James Ekai who is also the co-ordinator of the programme is aimed at training chiefs and assistant chiefs from areas that crime are prevalent all over Turkana county.
The chief facilitator of the training Mr. Ekaal Lokuruka, said that the training was carried after every 4-8 months depending on the new developments in law and also the funding.
A total of 10 chiefs underwent the training of which, Mr. Lokuruka said that two were already established while the 8 are the newly inducted to the programme.
He said that due to dynamic changes in laws of Kenya, there is need to access of justice at the grass root level, through refresher courses of the chiefs and assistant chiefs.
One of the inducted chiefs was pleased to note that areas that seemed to have been forgotten will now access this knowledge and will handle cases as the law needs but not as they view.
The training is sponsored by the catholic diocese of lodwar through peace and justice and funded by Trocaire. The two days training has ended today, while the participants call for frequent training and access to other areas that have not been reached.

LOCAL NEWS – 04.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - A call for drug free community in Turkana County, the Alcohol anonymous group says

A one day forum for the Alcohol Anonymous group which was organized by the Co-coordinator of Talbot center brought together 100 people within Lodwar town to participate in this important meeting.
The programme that was initiated by the catholic diocese of Lodwar benefits more people within the county. The days forum was conducted by the chemical dependency counselor from the diocese of Homa Bay, by Fr. Alias Ngafya Wainaina.
The forum attracted hundreds of Christians not only from the diocese, but also from other denominations. During the forum, the participants were taught on the effects of alcoholism and drug abuse.
The facilitator warned the participants that, becoming an addict has three main effects which include; becoming insane, being jailed or it can even lead to death. He added that alcohol addiction has led to breaking away of families and failure to implement the parental responsibilities, which may lead to poor relationship between children and parents.
Fr. Wainaina warned that frequent use of alcohol among youths has contributed to the spread of diseases like HIV and AIDS. He advised those who are addicted to drugs to practice leaving to use them since it ruins their lives and reduces their life spun by a period of ten to fifteen years. Alias also added that the participants should act as the role models in the society by helping to fight against the use of these drugs.
The participants showed good response to the teachings and congratulated the facilitator for coming to give light on the drug abuse and asked him to be coming regularly.

Local news - 03.02.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba -More than 97 schools to benefit from WASH programmes

More than 97 schools all over Turkana county are to benefit from Water Sanitation and Hygiene programme, (WASH) initiated by WASH Kenya in partnership with UNICEF. The District Development Officer for Turkana central Mr. Jeremiah Apalia said that already 28 schools have benefited from the project.
Speaking in his office today, Apalia said that a total of 50 million shillings have been imparted in the schools in this first phase. The officer added that although in some areas few schools have been reached than others, where more schools have been picked in this first allocation.
He said that the projects included water supply, latrine construction and general sanitation which is to be carried both in primary and secondary schools in the region.
Mr. Apalia gave the assurance to all schools that are on the list of beneficiaries to be patient as they are still waiting for funds to be disbursed and the projects will kick off immediately.
The project which is expected to cut across all the 6 districts is meant to promote hygiene and sanitation in schools within the region.

Local news – 2.2.11 - By Daniel Edaan - Mutual relationship workshop ends at St. Teresa Pastoral center

Mutual relations workshop held at St. Teresa center ended today with a colorful mass celebration presided over by Rt. Rev. Dominic Kimengich the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Lodwar Assisted by His Lordship Bishop Patrick Harrington.
The event brought together more than sixty priests, religious groups and brothers to these two days of prayer and meditation over the commitment and service of the clergy to the people of the catholic Diocese of Lodwar. The priest acknowledged that it's normally a learning experience each time they come together to look at what has been done and what needs to be improved in order to serve the people of God with Love, integrity and above all in a honest manner.
The climax of the function was the proposed re-structuring of the various Diocesan institutions serving under the Diocese of Lodwar secretariat.
Bishop Patrick Harrington invited the Chancellor of Diocese of Lodwar Mr. Antony Robert Woods, the Auxiliary Bishop Dominic Kimengich , Financial administrator who is also the Development coordinator Mr. Tim Flynn to present to the clergy present, the proposed structure to the clergy for the Diocese of Lodwar.
The committee proposed the following as the structure. water department, social services, financial and development, Education department, Pastoral and lay apostolic and Livelihood department.
The Bishop also named Fr. Joseph Ekalimon as The Dean in charge of the Lake Deanary, Fr. Gregory Kitem as the Dean of the Central Deanery ,Fr. Desmond Miller as the Dean of the Northern Deanery and Fr. Rico of Lokichar parishes the Dean of the Southern Deanery. The Bishop said that the new structure is geared towards improving efficiency performance and generally improve the delivery of service in the Diocese. The pre late later asked the clergy and the staff present to keep on giving suggestion for improvement.

LOCAL NEWS – 31.01.11 - By Zacheaus Otaba - Residents of Turkana county are asked to maintain wild life for the future generation's benefit

People of Turkana have been asked to give any report about animal-human conflict noticed in their respective areas. Speaking in his office today, the warden in charge of Turkana county Mr. Josephat Erupe, said that the few cases that have been reported to his office have been handled.
He noted that the issue of warthogs that was raised by some residents in Turkwel have been attended to, and assured them of their crop safety.
He admitted that the issue of hyenas and Jackals eating domestic animals is rampant, especially in areas where nomads have moved now in search of pasture and water. He pointed out that the areas mostly affected are; Kotaruk, Loima, Lorengipi and Loya, since all the herdsmen in the region migrated to these places.
He said that his office is trying to educate the residents on the importance of wild life and their relationship with man.
The officer urged the residents to collaborate with his office to ensure that minimum loss is met in both crops, domestic animals and wild life.
However he thanked the chiefs and councilors that have been showing the concern of the issue, and asked them to sensitize the pastoral communities to take care of their animals so that neither the domestic or the wild life is extincted.