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{
    "id": 1289143,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1289143/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 146,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Lomenen",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 2940,
        "legal_name": "James Lomenen Ekomwa",
        "slug": "james-lomenen-ekomwa"
    },
    "content": "benefits. Four, enhancing water transport on Lake Turkana can unlock trade routes, reducing transportation costs and foster regional integration. Mr. Speaker, Sir, in order to fully realize the opportunities, the following challenges need to be addressed: (1) the lake faces environmental threats such as pollution and siltation which jeopardizes the aquatic life and the fragile ecosystem. It is imperative that we prioritize stringent regulations and sustainable practises to safeguard our natural heritage; (2) inadequate infrastructure including roads that hinder the movement of goods and people around the lake limiting its economic potential; and, (3) the Turkana Community has historically been excluded from the benefit of the blue economy. This exclusion not only perpetuates poverty but also violates the principle of fairness and equity. Mr. Speaker, Sir, I call upon the Senate’s Standing Committee on Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries to engage the national Government and consider the following recommendations to address the aforementioned challenges for the benefit and welfare of the people of Turkana County - (1) advocate for and enforce environmentally sustainable practices in and around Lake Turkana to protect its ecosystem and aquatic life; (2) prioritise investment in critical infrastructure including roads, ports, and cold storage facilities to support economic activities around the lake; (3) local communities must be engaged in decision-making processes and benefit- sharing mechanisms to ensure that they actively participate in and benefit from the blue economy; and, (4) develop a comprehensive plan in collaboration with the Government and stakeholders to compensate the Turkana Community for historical neglect and deprivation of benefits from Lake Turkana resources. In conclusion, the potential of Lake Turkana Blue Economy is a golden opportunity for development that cannot be ignored. We, as the representatives of Turkana County, must advocate vigorously for the responsive harnessing of these invaluable resources. Let us unite across the party lines in this 3rd Senate Mashinani to drive discussion on how Lake Turkana can become a symbol of sustainable development inclusivity and prosperity. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir."
}