Local news – 29.7.12 - By Mary Tioko - Christians warned that their success do not depend on them but to God.

Christians from St. Augustine Cathedral parish today have been asked to Cooperate with God in the development of the world for he is the provider.

Quoting the scriptures of today, Fr. Manzi said when God gives you a chance to lead, you take it without giving excuse for He provides you with what to say and do.

Fr. Manzi said that people should not say that he or she cannot lead in any area given to her or him. He added that God showed that he had plenty to provide for them when he prayed and blessed the two fish and five loaves and was enough for all present. He again gave the example of Andrew in the reading saying that he gave an alternative of the child with two fish to Jesus.

He added that What God wants from anybody, is the willingness to give just like that child in the parable.

He asked them to take responsibilities of leadership right from the small Christian communities and said that God will take their weakness and make it their strength. He urged them to be generous with the little they have and God will handle the results of their actions.

Local news – 28.7.12 - By Mary Tioko - Children from JOHN PAUL II home for the physically challenged Lokichar visited Radio Akicha

The children from John Paul the 2 home for the physically challenged today traveled all the way from lokichar in Turkana South to Radio Akicha to give their fellow physically challenged children courage to carry on with life and show them that they can make it in life. The children who were 25 in number echoed in one voice that they need education and medical attention from their parents and all people of good will. Mentioning on what is done in the home at Lokichar, one of the doctors from the home who accompanied the children in the trip Mr. Mathew Mutiso said that they help the children both in education and also medically. Mr. Mutiso also said that they organize surgery for children who may need it as they have links with Kijabe hospital for the specialized treatment. The Matron of the Home Sr. Natiba Mapendo added that those children need people who can help them uncover their abilities so as to realize their dreams in life. John Paul 2 home in Lokichar helps children from the entire Turkana county and also Physically challenged Adults in getting artificial legs and wheel chairs to enable them walk.

Sr. Mapendo thanked Erko based in slovakia for their financial support and also prayers in ensuring that the Turkana Physically challenged children are given opportunities to enjoy their lives in full like all the normal children. They called upon all the parents and guardians who live with such children to bring them for the medication and screening at John Paul the 2 home for the Physically challenged Lokichar for proper attention thus empowering them.

LOCAL NEWS – 25.07.2012 - BY ZACHEAUS OTABA - Teachers warn on early school closure due to food shortage

The Turkana county education commissioner Mr. Nicodemus Anyang, has asked teachers to stay put in school, as the solution to shortage of food is sort.

Anyang who was speaking in his office today, said that there are some reports that some schools have already ran short of food hence posing a threat of school to be closed earlier than expected. He note that Red cross has promised to give porridge to schools that are experiencing food shortage by now, before the official closing date. The commissioner added that most of the schools in Turkana south and East are affected and that they waiting for Red cross to respond on the promise it made. He was pleased to note that already food for next term has arrived to the constituency headquarters, which is Turkana South, Turkana Central and Turkana North.

He leaked that the food meant for a term cannot be used in a different term, even it will be available.

Local news - By Ghero Christine – 24.07.2012 - NACC TRAINS CBOs AND FBOs IN TURKANA CENTRAL

The National Aids Control Council today conducted a one day training to the CBOs and FBOs that have HIV programmes in Turkana central district at st. Augustine conference hall. The CACC coordinator Turkana south constituency Mr. Yese Erupe, who was one of the facilitators said that the are aiming at reducing stigmatization among people living with HIV/Aids, in the county. Mr. Erupe said since the training started grate improvement has been observed since the rate of HIV Aids has reduced, he insisted that we should all take measures because this disease is affecting both the infected and the ones who are not affected either directly or indirectly. In the meeting, the government was represented by the D.O Turkana central division who was present, he was pleased with the work being done by the NACC. Speaking during the meeting he urged the the CBOs, the FBOs and the community at large to work together to ensure they fight the disease.

Local news – 24.7.12 - By Mary Tioko - Parting shot of Fr. Geoffrey Nakutan to the Diocesan Secretariat

The Assistant priest of St. Augustine's Cathedral parish who was also the coordinator of Talbot Centre Fr. Geoffrey Nakutan yesterday gave his parting shot to the Diocesan secretariat during Monday staff mass. Fr. Nakutan said that there is a good reason for the staff to give thanks to the lord for whatsoever he has given to them. Fr. Nakutan reminded them of the words of Bishop Norman king'oo who once answered a question asked by his fellow bishops on the Turkana people and the life they live saying that in the Diocese of Lodwar, people are just happy the way they are if only they are not influenced by other things people tell them. He added that people are contented with what God has given them in that time. He urged them to thank God for what they have that time and ask the good lord to give them something else. Fr. Nakutan Challenged his fellow priests to to see the hearts of people than the external parts saying that God sees differently from the way human beings see. Giving example of Micah in the reading he challenged them not to be discouraged when people do not follow what they preach saying that maybe the way they do it is not right and challenged them to do it the right way just as Micah did. Fr. Nakutan asked the staff to be committed to do the will of God, work in solidarity with other people they serve, and above all love them. He also cautioned them of being proud and urged them to be humbled so as to receive God's blessings in their work and be peaceful always. He called upon all to always seek for the guidance from God through the sacrament of penance. Fr. Nakutan is leaving for studies in Tangaza College to study social communications. We wish him God's Blessings as he pursues his studies!

Local news - By Ghero Christine – 23.07.2012 - FIGHT AGAINST TUBERCULOSIS AND HIV AIDS

Health workers from the six districts of Turkana county today started their 5 days training at Anna Nanjala Centre on TB and Aids treatment and prevention.

The District TB and Leprosy Coordinator Mr Abraham Kimutai said that their aim is to impact knowledge to the health workers so as to perfect their skills. It has been noted that HIV among the TB patients is on the rise, in every 100 patients of HIV 33 of them are suffering from TB hence there is to detect then put them on treatment. Speaking during the training, Mr. Kimutai said that their mission is to ensure they attain all their goals and objective thats is to bring TB to a manageable level.

The training which will end on Friday is sponsored by Elizabeth Glazier Pediatric Aids Foundation (EGPAF)

Local news – 20.7.12 - By Mary Tioko - Deputy Premier promises to end insecurity in Turkana County

Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta has promised to beef up security in the conflict prone Turkana South District in Turkana County amidst attack on the residents of Turkana south yesterday. The deputy premier said that the government will dedicate every resource to ensure security for the warring pastoralist tribes in the northern Kenya. Uhuru said development of the nation will not be realized unless security and peace among communities was guaranteed. He also said that the government will deploy more security officer in the region and increase the number of police reservists adding that he was shocked to see makeshift police office at Lokori in Turkana East district in deplorable condition. Uhuru Kenyatta was leading a team of The National Alliance (TNA) party on a 3 day campaign in Turkana County amidst local leaders scramble for the party's nomination slots.

Accompanied by Mwangi Kiunjuri and a host Mp’s affiliated to TNA party, Uhuru addressed residents and business people in Lokori, Lokichar, and Lokitaung. He is expected to address people in Lodwar and Loima town tomorrow.

Local news – 20.7.12 - By Mary Tioko and Lomuria - K B C Signal blackout in the County raises concern to the viewers

Local residents have accused a state broad casting TV station (KBC) for neglecting the Turkana strengthening the notion of marginalization.
The entire Turkana region has not been receiving the KBC signal for the past five months rendering many with no digital television helpless.

This comes at time when the nation is moving to the digital satellite technology. KBC has been enjoying a wider coverage in TV programmes in the area but locals have recently complained of a row deal following unnoticed failure of signals of broadcast programmes in the area.
This concern, pressured KBC crew who were in lineee of there duty at Ngamia-1 well near Lokichar town forcing them to call their head office in theipresence. The residents told the crew that it was of no use for the media to cover matters of the county yet they cannot access the signal.
The Lokichar residents said the state media was failing in its mandate to educate, inform and entertain the public as enshrined in the constitution.
According to Derick Emase, the former chairman of the Chamber of commerce in Lodwar said the broadcaster has ignored their calls to boast television signal in the region.
Mr. Emase said that It is the constitutional right of people of Turkana to receive information through the national broadcaster. He added that that was the infringement of their right as enshrined in the constitution.

Area residents have been forced to scramble in few places with DSTV disks to watch current news and other programs due to let down by the national broadcaster.
In March this year, KBC staff went on strike asking for overhaul of obsolete equipment among other grievances.

Local news - By Ken and Ghero – 19.07.2012 - FIGHT AGAINST DRUG ABUSE

The youths Empowerment from the Diocese of Lodwar had a 4 day training at St. Teresa Pastoral center that ended today.

The program which was sponsored by the Diocese had 26 youths from different parts of Turkana County. Speaking during the training the diocese of Lodwar Chairman Mr. Francis Ekai said that the main reason of coming up with this program is to train the youths on abstinence and behavioral change.

The chairman also said that the youths should acquire knowledge, skills and attitude of having positive in the daily and also take part in the community responsibility.

Mr Francis also added that their target was youths from all over Turkana county and from different denominations, this include Muslims,Protestants and Roman Catholics.

The youth,s Chairman also pointed out some challenge that most of the youths are facing ,peer pressure,lack of self esteem,conflicts among others. His wish is that these youths who were in the meeting should go down and share the information with the others who were not in the meeting.

Local News – 18-07-2012 - By Ghero Christine - 63 people trained on how to control HIV&AIDS

National AIDS control council (NASCOP ) is training 63 people from Turkana North on community Empowerment on the fight against HIV/ AIDS on their own at Anna Nanjala Centre in Lodwar.

The Ministry of health in conjunction with world Bank that was Launched by president Mwai kibaki on 2003 have played a major role in enabling people to fight and control HIV/ AIDS. The HIV &AIDS coordinator of Turkana North Mr. Joseph Keter said that the HIV&AIDS is not the Issue of ministry of health but is for every Individual.

Mr. keter however added that the main aim of training the community is to equip them with knowledge on how to fight and control the disease. The community was also trained on project financial management. This will also be a leeway for the formation of groups which will be given money to start their own project to support them in life.

The training which started yesterday Tuesday the 17^th is running up to Sunday the 22^nd July 2012 in the same venue.

LOCAL NEWS – 15.07.2012 - BY ZACHEAUS OTABA - Let us pair with jesus, the priest tells christians

The Christians of the risen Christ Nakwamekwi parish today were asked to accept the called of Jesus, as he sent the pair of two of his disciples.

In his homily, father Boneventure Emathe who was also celebrating his last mass in the parish, insisted that after Jesus taught his disciples, he decided to send them out with instructions. He noted that Christians should always be keen to listen to the voice of God, as He calls them to go out and be fishers of men.The priest called for the believers not to addow to the worldly wealth, which may lead them to go against the will of God in their service. He congratulated the people of the Risen Christ Nakwamekwi for the cooperation they have showed towards the growth of the church.

Father Emathe who has been to the parish since March this year is moving to Turkwel parish, as per the assignment given to him.

Local news - By Ken and Ghero – 14.07.2012 - CDF Manages up for a perfect job

The North Rift CDF committee had a 4 days workshop at Anna Nanjala Education Center in Lodwar town on how to manage and improve their work.

The meeting consisted of 7 counties which include Turkana Kapenguria, Trans-nzoia, Uasingishu, Baringo Keiyo and Nandi.

The main aim of the meeting was to discuss on how to plan ,improve,and carry on with their work smoothly. In every field of work their must be challenges, these challenges were among the issues to be discussed and find solutions to them.

Speaking during the meeting the Eldoret Chairman who is also the Chairman for North Rift CDF Mr. Isaac Maiyo said that after 50years of independence in Kenya,Turkana is still behind indicating that the Turkana county is still under colonial system of governance.

Mr. Maiyo insisted that Turkana must be given more CDF funds so as to boost their standards and their way of life this was as a result of visiting Kanamkemer primary school and found that the school had more than 2000 pupils but with very minimal facilities to run the school.

During the closing ceremony there was awarding of trophies to the CDF managers who have been doing there work to perfection.

The expected guest Hon Eugine Wamalwa and Hon Ekwe did not turn up due an avoided circumstances

Keiyo county emerged to be the best on CDF funds management ,followed by Eldoret North ,Turkana central being the 3^rd on the list.

Mr. Isaac however said that the trophies were to motivate the managers to work even harder so as to build a better Kenya.

Local news – 12.07.2012 - By Ghero Christine - 10 Years behind bars for defilement

Cases of defilement in Turkana county, are still rampant according to the number of cases held in the Lodwar court in the last five months. In early July a 37 years old man Katoto Abubarkar was charged in a Lodwar court for defiling a 17 year old girl at Kakuma Refuge camp.

Mr Katoto was alleged that in early this year he committed the crime in kakuma refugee. He found guilty of the action and sent in for 10 years. On defending himself he said that he has three siblings to take care off and that the court was to consider his plea.

Local news - 8.7.12 - By Mary Tioko - The Christians of St. Augustine's Cathedral parish have been urged to be strong in their faith even when they

The Christians of St. Augustine's Cathedral parish have been encouraged to be strong in their faith even when they are at their weakest points in life. The bishop's Executive secretary Fr. John Kizito Manzi said that many people lose hope when things go wrong in their lives and forsake their almighty creator who has the powers over evil.

Fr. Manzi gave the example of prophet Ezekiel in todays reading saying that he continued preaching to the Israelites even when they never wanted to hear what he said. Fr. Manzi also said that God never assured Ezekiel of peace and commitment of those whom he was to minister to but he faced the work with courage.Fr. Manzi added that Jesus was also rejected by his own people in his hometown Nazareth although they knew very well what he did but he never lost hope but instead he went to other towns to preach. He challenged the Christians to be courageous witnesses of Christ. He said that it is very hard to listen and put the word of God into practice but God reveals to them his mysteries at their own time. In the Jubilee Mini Harambee for the church today, they managed to raise 83,565/= and the organizing committee thanked all those who contributed towards this work of mercy. The main Harambee is scheduled to take place on the 11^th August 2012 at Bishop Mahon Hall at exactly 2.00pm. All are welcome.

Local news – 8.7.12 - By Mary Tioko - St. Augustine's Cathedral Church Choir launch their 4th Album entitled 'Vaeni Silaha

St. Augustine's Cathedral Church Choir has launched their 4^th Album today after production were very much excited to introduce their songs to the Christians and the public at large. The Chairman of the Choir Mr. Meshack Ekiru introducing the new songs to the public said that within the first two weeks they will do a promotion at only 250/- per C.D.

Mr. Ekiru also said that the one who buys 5 Cds will be sold at only 200/= discount. The Title “Vaeni Silaha” invites all people of good will to be ready to put on the Armour of christ so as to defeat the works of the evil one. The war of the Christians is not for this world but for the kingdom of God.

In the album you will find the songs like, Nakuja na Zawadi, Huyu ni yesu, Nakushukuru, nitamuhimidi bwana, nimevipiga vita by Charles Razare, Nitayainua Macho, Bikira Maria by, Francis Ejore, Vaeni Silaha, Heri yenu ninyi, Karamu ya bwana by Peter Cheseto, and Nakuja kwako mungu by Polycarp Matenge. The Choir members thank God for this work, all those who supported them in producing this Cassette in cash and kind. They request for the support in purchasing the original copies currently found in the St. Augustine's Parish bookshop and Choir officials at the stated fee. God bless the work of their hands!

Sports news – 07.07.2012 - by ken simiyu - The S.A nawoitorong to represent the county in foot ball boys

The county secondary school games ended today in Lodwar and 4 schools have qualified to represent Turkana county on 18^th of July at Kapenguria.

In semi final St Kevin was beaten by salvation army 2 goals to nil both goals was scored by Emau at prison ground. Elsewhere St Leo Kakuma thrashed Lokitaung 2 goals to zero at Lodwar mixed primary ground.

The Finals was between St. Leo against Salvation Army Nawoitorong at Lodwar primary ground, where by Salvation Army Nawoitorong Disciplined St .Leo Kakuma 1 -0 and Emerged the champions for Turkana County for the second time. In leg ball girls, Turkana Girls defeated Kang'itit through penalty shoot out. Our Lady's girls Kakuma Are the champions, After beating Turkana girls 2 goals to 1 in the match played at prison ground.

In valley ball The 4 times champions St. Kevin have defended their champions both Boys and girls will represent Turkana county.

Local news – 06.07.2012 - By Christine Ghero -Farmers to embrace poultry keeping

Food and Agriculture Organization {FAO} in partnership with TUPADO, VSF Belgium and the Ministry of livestock development in conjunction with the Government, is coming up with a poultry keeping proposal to supplement cattle, sheep and goat rearing proposal.

Mrs Ann Wanjiru a consultant from Kenya Agricultural Research Institute said that they are aiming at assessing what the producers of the indigenous chicken are doing so that they can be able to build their capacity in poultry keeping. She added that they up to improve the indigenous chicken rearing mostly in arid areas, Turkana county being one of them. She agreed that people in the county need to have any other source of food after they loose their animals in whichever the circumstance.20 producers were selected for training which has been going own for the last one week. Wanjiru promised that they will be visiting the members after every six months to see how they are faring on, though there are field monitors who will be guiding them in case of any problem. She urged the participants to go and share what they had gained, with those who are willing to keep poultry, but they lack the knowledge. The meeting which started on Monday ended today at splash guest with the participants issued with certificates of participation.

Local news – 03.07.2012 - by Zacheaus Otaba -Youths to form groups in the county to access loans

The Diocesan Youth Empowerment Programme is conducting a three day training to the youth of Nakwamekwi parish, in the risen Christ church hall.

The constituency youth officer in charge of Turkana south John Kalale, who was one of the facilitators said that it is better for youth to be trained on business skills before given access to loans from the youth office. Some of the area touched is new constitution and elections, entrepreneurship, the art of communication and procedures of forming a group.

The workshop which brings together more than 47 youth from all over the parish, is aiming at empowering the youth on group formation in order to earn a source of income, since there is scarce employment.

The training which started yesterday, will be ending tomorrow.

Local news – 2.07.2012 - By Ghero and ken Simiyu - Fight against polio Campaign Kicks off in Turkana County

The ministry of health in collaboration with UNICEF is carrying out a training to equip all the district Health officers with skills on how to kick polio out of the County at St. Teresa Pastoral center. The actual campaign is expected to kick off on 14th of July this year.

The DMOH of Turkana North and West Dr. JonahMagare said that the training is basically for the DHMT members from all over Turkana county on polio campaign. Dr. Magare added that the medical staff are being trained on how to preserve the oral polio vaccine {OPV} and also they are being trained on map drawing. This maps will not only help them trace almost 99% of the population targeted, but will also help them go around and reach the community thus ensuring that each and every child below 5 years gets the vaccine. He highlighted the challenges faced always when this exercise takes place being that some places are hostile and risky, ignorance and poor communication network in the County.

Local news – 1.7.12 - By Mary Tioko - Catholic Faithfuls celebrate the feast of Saints Peter and Paul The Apostles

The Catholic faithfuls in the country were requested to celebrate the feast of Saint Peter and Paul the Apostles today since it fell in the middle of the week. The celebration which is always celebrated on 29^th June every year to mark these two heroes of faith, this year fell on a Friday. Marking the feast day at St. Augustine's Cathedral Church with the Christians of St. Augustine's, his lordship bishop Dominic Kimengich said that the Apostolic Nuncio who is away in Rome instructed all the bishops of Kenya to celebrate the feast of St. Peter and Paul today. Bishop Kimengich said that St. Peter and Paul the Apostles fought the fight and won the race and guarded their faith well. He urged the Christian faithfuls to be true witnesses of Christ in whatever they do and guard their faith. His lordship also commented on the universality of the catholic Church informing all the faithfuls present that they are special people who belong to one holy and Apostolic Catholic Church which invites all to belong irrespective of their various backgrounds. Bishop Kimengich added that the church is founded by Jesus christ upon the disciples. He said that Peter was given the keys of heaven and that powers of hell will never overcome the church. He thus called upon all who belong to this church to be proud that God has called them to belong to this church which has one leader- the pope. Touching on the coming elections, his lordship encouraged the Christians to use their votes well as a sign of unity in the Country and not a sign disunity. The bishop also led the faithfuls in contributing towards St. Peters pence which is always contributed on this day to be taken to Rome for the use of Pope in his Ministry.

Local news - By Ghero Christine -03.07.2012 - Number of pupils in nursery expected to increase in turkana county

The Emergency response Program is conducting a three days training at Anna Nanjala Education Center for the Early Childhood Development and nursery teachers.

The training which brings together more than 45 members will end on 6^th of July. The program officer Mr. Vinson Ekai said that the sponsors are training the ECD and the nursery teachers on, Nutrition , Hygiene promotion ,child care/protection management and governance and participation.

Mr. Ekai said that the program is incorporation with Afya Bora, the District Public Health, District Nutrition of Loima together with the Ministry of Education.

The program was introduced last year and since then there have been great progress such as, coming up with buildings for the children to shelter from the hot sun, increased number of pupils in nursery schools. Mr Ekai glad that the promotion of the nursery children to class one will be more.

The program officer urged the teachers to corporate with the parent together with all stakeholder in child protection to make sure they protect the children on child abuse, child labor and any in human acts.

Local news – 30.06.2012 - by ken simiyu - Nawoitorong leads the turkana central football

The inter school competition in Turkana central constituency have ended, with Nawoitorong smashing st. Kevin through a penalty at the 10^th minute through Hybary.

Earlier, the played down Lodwar High in finals 3-1through penalties after playing 0-0 during normal 90 minutes and 30mins extra time at prisons ground. Else where, st Kevin won 1-0 against PAG secondary at Lodwar mixed grounds.

In volley ball boys st. Kevin is leading the squad after beating down PAG while st. Kevin girls is at the top in volley ball.

In Turkana North constituency, Kakuma thrashed Songot 4-0 in semis and Tarach drew with song'ot. The final between st. Leo Kakuma and Tarach boys ended 1-0, the only goal scored by Robea at the 70^th minute.

The county competitions are expected to take place on the 6^th and the 7^th of July in Lodwar town.

LOCAL SPORTS – 29.06.2012 - Turkana central constituency sport kicks on smoothly

The inter school competitions in Turkana central district commenced today in various fields in Lodwar town, involving 9 secondary schools.

Lodwar High is leading pool B with 6 points after beating Trans Africa 5-1 and smashed Kerio 3-0, it is tying with PAG but with goal difference. In Pool A St kevin is leading with 4 points after beating Nawoitorong 1-0 and drew with Turkwel 1-1 while S.A Nawaitorong have 3 points for walking over Moi High 1-0.

Tomorrow, SA Nawaitorong will be playing against Lodwar High in semi final while PAG plays St kevin . Else where St kevin Girls is leading leg ball after winning all the two matches, after smashing moi girls and Trans-Africa and qualified for semi finals.

The sports coordinator for Tukana central Samson Ngariba, was glad to note tha the games kicked off well without much challeges. The semi finals and finals will be played tomorrow in various fields.

Local news - 28.06.2012 - By Christine Ghero - Disaster risk reduction

The Turkana county today started a training on Risk Reduction at Anna Nanjala Education Education Center, the training attracted more than 40 offices from 6 districts, the officers were from various departments such as Lodwar meteorological department,The Ministry of Agriculture, Doctors among many other respected and learned people all over Turkana county.

Dr. Simiyu Taabu a lecturer at Moi university said that the training marked their 17^th meeting on discussing the issues about disaster risk reduction, their main interest is the arid areas because these are the places were people are really suffering and undergoing hardship thus need for disaster risk reduction.

Dr. Simiyu added that the committee is ready to go down to the grass root level and find the community's views and hardship there after they are planning to find ways of helping and solving their problems. Dr. Simiyu said though they may seem to have achieved so much,but there are some challenges the committee is facing, these include Culture{taboo and customs},Resistance to diversity live hood, the Cross border conflicts {Turkana-Pokot} and Language barrier .However he argued the Turkana people to corporate and fight against disaster reduction.

Local News – 26.06.2012 - By Ken Simiyu - The Ministry of youths affairs and sports targeting more than 500 youths on talent explotion.

The Provincial of Youths Affairs and Sports in Rift valley province Mr Habel Lubanga is in Lodwar for Talent exposure.

Mr Lubanga said that their main aim of coming to Lodwar is to nature the hidden talents in the youths from Turkana county.

The Provincial director of youths and sports Mr Lubanga realized that there is no representative from Turkana in any activity national wide either in football or any sports activity.

However Mr Habel noted that there is need for talent exposure in the arid areas, he said that these young people have the ability to sing, dance and more so do the bead decoration only if given a chance to do so,he insisted that the targeted number is 500 youths. The talent search audition is mainly done in Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit and Tana River, the selected group shall proceed to Nairobi for further training there after wards they shall be marketed.

Local news – 26.06.2012 - By Christine Ghero - The Turkana county youths empowerment Training

This is the first time youths from Turkana county are getting the chance of training on naturing their talents. The training began on Monday 25^th of June 2012, at Anna Nanjala Education Center, this program has been a success and a spot light to many youths in Turkana, so far 30 youths have been attracted and are more than willing to take their county to another level by doing their level best.

The training is categorized in different categories such as dancing, singing basketry e.t.c, this being the only way youths can identify their talents and benefit from it only if they are confident and believe that they can do it. Local artists attended the training and were happy with the project, according to Ibrahim commonly known as “Ibra” our very own local Turkana artist based in Lodwar said that its the very first time such a thing is happening and he is very happy because its like a brake through for the local Turkana artists.Ibra added that Turkana youths have been encouraged to do their best in order for them to better their future. He says the main aim of the program is to identify talents, nature them then market so as the youths can earn a living and be able to be dependent and also be of benefit to the society at large.

Ibra argued the youths to expose their talents, be serious with what they are doing, do it passionates and above all the should be humble and have respect because thats all it take to be a star. He said that youths should not only base themselves on white collar jobs but also use their talents to employ themselves.

Local news - By Ghero – 25.06.2012 - National youth talent academy

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and sports, proposed a research on issues affecting the youths in Kenya. The research which was sponsored by UNICEF targeted Youths from the three regions, thats Turkana, Tana River and Marsabit.

The research indicated that, the youths have talents but due to lack of education and money to sponsor them, the talents in them are not identified, exposed nor marketed thus they end up being wasted, since they may end up in drug abuse or other immoral activities. The District Youth Officer for Turkana south Mr. Evans Otieno said that, they have launched a talent show at Anna Nanjala Education Center, this is to empower the youths on how to nature and maintain their talents trough the support of UNICEF so as to identify, train and market them. However, he said after the auditions the identified youths with talents shall proceed to Kasarani in Nairobi where they have established a Talent Youths Academy, through which the youths shall be educated and trained. Mr. Otieno added that this will enable youth who missed school due to poverty to access their talents. This is the second Academy after UNICEF promised to open a sports Academy in Lodwar.

Local news - 24.6.12 - By Mary Tioko - Christians called upon to unite to enjoy the gifts bestowed to them by God

The Christian faithfuls from St. Augustine's Cathedral parish have been requested to be one just as their father in heaven is one so as to be worthy to be called sons and daughters of God. Addressing the faithfuls today during his Homily, his lordship Dominic Kimengich called upon all to be united as they discover Natural resources in the county. Mentioning on the on going oil exploration in the County, his lordship encouraged all to be focused in mind and body and seek for God's intervention in all their decisions.

The bishop also encouraged the faithfuls to pray for Vocations and especially the call to priesthood as they celebrate the birth of John the baptist who lived his call. Bishop Dominic added that children are Gifts from God referring to the example of Zachary and Elizabeth who got the child ( John the baptist ) at their old age. He challenged the couples to be united and faithful to their marriages so as to emulate the example of Zachary and Elizabeth.

The Christians were also encouraged to be patient in their expectations and give God time to plan for them for God's time is the best time for all. His lordship also took the opportunity of thanking the outgoing Kangatosa parish priest Fr. Philip Lotiman of the Apostles of Jesus congregation who has left the Diocese. The Bishop also appreciated the efforts of all the secretariat while he was away and wished them the best as they start the new week.

Local news – 23.06.2012 - by zacheaus otaba - Leaders in a forum told to Give reality not blames

Leaders of Turkana today had a rough time when every body who could have had a chance to talk in a Turkana leaders forum, insisted that they are to the truth to people of Turkana instead of casting blame on each other.

In a meeting held at Lodwar Medical Training College on the oil exploration in the county by Tullow oil, most local leaders noted that for a long time Turkana politicians have never sat down to solve their differences. This being a closed door meeting for Turkana leaders, it was in preparation of the report to be presented to the ministry of energy, provincial administration and Tullow oil tomorrow.

The teams which were formed from all the six district were given five chances to present their views, where it emerged that the three Turkana MPs had nothing but to what they know a bout the issue of oil exploration, legal ownership of the land, employment of local people and and sharing of the profit.The leaders will be meeting tomorrow with the government officials and company officials to present the report and community views.

Local News - By Ken and Ghero – 22.06.2012 - The CUC meeting sensitizing the brain chain of judiciary workers

The Court Users Committee [CUC] held a meeting at St. Teresa Pastoral Center. The committee which was formed and officially opened in 2008, its aim was to sensitize the brain chain of judiciary which includes the Probation officers, officers in charge of prison OCPD among others.

Their main aim was to collect the views from those who carry day to day activities with the court and hear them to serve the community properly.

Speaking during the meeting, The District Probation Officer Mr. David Ekimat said that the CUC committee has helped them to identify some projects to be implemented such as, building the structures for rescue centers to protect anybody who is manipulated and also to enable the lawyers to interrogate them, and also the women undergo rape and domestic to be protected.

Issues of under age motorist was also discussed,and it was passed that law will be taken to both the employee and the owner of the motorcycle, and also more prosecutors are needed to reduce congestion of cases in the court and also prisons should be expanded.

Local News - By Ken and Ghero - Camel theft for dowry payment

One was arraigned to Lodwar law court today, being accused of stealing two camels worthy Kshs.36,500 in Loima district of Turkana county.

Gabriel Etabo was accused of stealing Etabo Lomoyo's camel in january this year in Nakutan in Loima district. The diverse dates of January 2012 in Nakutan village in Loima District within Turkana County. Jointly stole two camels valued of 36,500 the property of Akuta Ngasike.

Mr Gabriel Etabo accused for stealing Etabo Lomoyo 's camel and was accused and reign in court before senior resident Mr. Harrison Barasa. The complainer Mr. Etabo Lomoyo Ename promised to come with the mother camel as an evidence.

The hearing was adjourned to 19.07.2012 where by both camels will be produced for identification.

Local news - by Ken and Ghero – 20.06.2012 - THE MINISTRY STRATEGIZES MODALITIES TO FIGHT POLIO

The ministry of public health has decided to incorporation the Provincial administration which includes Chiefs, ass Chiefs and Village elders, in the survey of Turkana county in preparation of the polio campaign next month.

In a meeting held at Anna Nanjala Center today, to lay strategies on how to fight against polio, The District Medical officer of Health for Turkana central Dr. Joseph Esekon Epem said that it is important for Provincial Administration to be involved since they have the records of the most vulnerable areas.

The MOH added that there is need for topography mapping for easy identification and accessibility of the areas and features so as to enable them reach to people in the interior . Dr. Epem however urged the chiefs to link with the health workers before the exercise starts, for security purposes since the volunteers are from their village who will be giving the directions.

This is in the efforts of the ministry to curb insecurity for its workers during the polio campaign exercise that is set to start on 16th July this year. For a long time, to get perfect results in the region has not been that easy, due to frequent movement of the people even during time the exercise is on.