Lodwar

Lodwar is the largest town in northwestern Kenya and the capital of Turkana County. It is situated on the western bank of the Turkwel River. The town serves as a major administrative and commercial center for the surrounding arid region, which is primarily inhabited by the Turkana people. Lodwar's economy is largely driven by livestock trade, small-scale agriculture, and increasingly, by the discovery of oil and gas resources in the Turkana Basin. The town has experienced significant growth in recent years due to these developments, leading to increased infrastructure and services.

Historically, Lodwar gained prominence as a colonial administrative post. It is also known for being the place where Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya's first president, was imprisoned by the British colonial authorities in the 1940s. The town's strategic location has made it a hub for humanitarian aid organizations working in the region, addressing challenges such as drought, food insecurity, and conflict. Lodwar is connected to other parts of Kenya by road and has a local airport, which facilitates transportation and trade. The climate is hot and dry, typical of the semi-arid environment of Turkana County.