This archive report was first published on 24 October 2021.
On October 24, 2021, the Turkana County government took a significant step to improve public health in the region by banning fish processing in Kalokol town and adjacent centers along the shores of Lake Turkana.
The move, aimed at promoting high levels of sanitation in the region, which frequently experiences cholera outbreaks, was announced by County Director of Trade Clement Nadio.
According to Nadio, the county government has established a designated site for processing fish to ensure consumers receive quality and safe fish products.
"We have issued a month-long notice of relocation to all the traders who have also warned about using outlawed polythene bags. Those who dump solid and liquid waste in non-designated areas will be prosecuted," Nadio said.
The ban is part of the county's efforts to ensure the town, which attracts traders from as far as the Democratic Republic of Congo, adheres to public health protocols to attract more investors in the fish value chain.
A multi-sectoral team comprising officers from the National Environment Management Authority, trade, and public health will effectively enforce the ban.
Acting County Director of Trade Wilson Ejiye emphasized that hygiene in towns along the shores of Lake Turkana will directly translate into more income for traders and increased revenue collection.
He appealed to security officers to work with county officials to assure the safety of traders.
During the one-month notice period, public health officials will check compliance to health provisions, especially on the establishment of toilets at business premises, said Lumbasi Rapando, a public health official.
