The Kenya kwanza administration, led by President William Ruto, has announced plans to construct a State Lodge in Turkwel, West Pokot County. The project, estimated to cost Ksh 230 million, will be a collaborative effort between the national government and the Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA). The lodge is expected to open up the region and drive development.

During a visit to the area, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo emphasized the government’s commitment to the project, stating, “We want KVDA to come forward and work with the government to make sure that the project comes to fruition.” West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin echoed this sentiment, pledging his support for the initiative and urging for a close working relationship with stakeholders.

Sammy Naporos, the Managing Director of KVDA, assured that the project would receive priority, promising, “We want a close working relationship with stakeholders to make sure by December we have the State Lodge.” Additionally, Omollo announced that the construction of the State Lodge is set to commence in February.

This announcement comes as part of a larger plan by the government to launch more development projects in West Pokot, including initiatives related to irrigation, road infrastructure, and the rehabilitation of the Turkwel State Lodge. The lodge will join the existing three State Houses in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Nakuru, as well as the eight other State Lodges located across the country. This move is expected to have a significant impact on the region and its development.