This archive report was first published on 25 July 2019.
On July 25, 2019, the European Union, through the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), launched a Sh20 million Geographical Information System (GIS) laboratory in West Pokot County to help in land data collection.
The programme, run by FAO, aims to assist marginalised counties in identifying fertile areas for food production and using land in a more resourceful way.
Speaking during the opening of the lab in Kapenguria, FAO Country Representative Gabriel Rugalema said the system would help in mapping communal land and digitizing land information that had been in existence since colonial times.
“The locals have been traveling to Eldoret and Nakuru to get land maps. They will now not waste time and money to go far to print their maps,” Rugalema said.
European Union Country Representative David Mwangi noted that the centre would provide residents with information on development, including education, food availability, land, water, and healthcare.
“The services will work for 24 hours. The County will eventually take ownership of the digital centre,” Mwangi said.
He also urged residents to ensure equal access to land rights for women and youths, and to empower the youth to be on the front line in conflict management.
County Governor John Lonyangapuo commended the initiative, saying it was timely and would help map mineral deposits sites.
