Curtains close on Successful 5th National ECD Conference

Jul 20, 2023 - 14:50

Stakeholders during the closing day of the 5th National Early Childhood Development Stakeholders Conference in Lodwar. by Peter Gitonga

Turkana

Thursday, July 20, 2023

KNA by Peter Gitonga

The 5th National Early Childhood Development Stakeholders Conference concluded today, receiving praise from Governor Mr. Jeremiah Lomorukai and stakeholders for its resounding success.

Themed "From Policy and Evidence to Action," the three-day event brought together more than 500 ECD practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders from 31 counties and 10 countries. Its primary objective was to emphasize the crucial role of research and data in shaping policy decisions and translating them into tangible actions.

Speaking when he officially closed the conference, Lomorukai expressed his gratitude to the dignitaries and delegates. He also acknowledged the valuable contributions from partners in resource mobilization that facilitated the event.

The County boss, who was accompanied by County First Lady Mrs. Lillian Ekamais, extended an invitation to all participants to attend the upcoming Turkana Cultural and Tourism Festival scheduled for 25th to 29th September 2023.

Deputy Governor Dr John Erus lauded the conference for positively impacting the perception of Turkana County. He urged the attendees to become ambassadors, promoting the attractions of Turkana to the world.

The County Executive for Education Ms. Leah Audan challenged the host of the 6th conference in 2025, Garissa County, to learn from the achievements and triumphs of the Lodwar event.

National Coordinator of the Early Childhood Development Network for Kenya, Dr Teresa Mwoma revealed that the conference had set a record with the highest number of participants ever. On the opening day, 1193 participants graced the event.

Mwoma also expressed her gratitude to Governor Lomorukai and the Ministry of Education for their invaluable contributions to the conference's success. She announced that the conference had attracted participants from various countries such as Nigeria, Spain, Tanzania, the UK, Zambia, Gambia, Mauritius, and the Caymans.

Notable dignitaries and leaders present included West Pokot County First Lady Mrs. Scovia Kachapin, a host of County Executives from various counties, MCAs Mr. Patrick Napion (Kaeris), Ms. Ruth Kuya (Lodwar Township), Ms. Lydia Ejore (nominated) and Ms. Sarah Abdi (nominated).

Senior County Government staff present included Deputy County Secretary Mr. Joseph Nyang’a; Chief Officers Mr. Robert Loyelei (Sports and Vocational Training), Mr. Derick Epae (Administration and Disaster Management), Mr. Amoni Arus Triza (Tourism, Culture and Heritage), Ms. Cicilia Maajuma (Public Service), Mr. Joseph Epuu (Youth and Gender Affairs) and Cathra Abdi (Municipalities and Urban Areas Management).

Courtesy ; K. N. A