Inside Turkana Kenya's sinking island: LONG'ECH will disappear in 2 months due to climate change

Longech is a remote fishing village and island community located on the shores of Lake Turkana in Kang'atotha Ward, Turkana County, Kenya. The area relies heavily on artisanal fishing and experiences unique environmental and developmental hurdles. Long'ech Island is a small island and settlement in the southern part of Lake Turkana, near Fergusson Bay in Turkana County, Kenya. It has traditionally been home to Turkana fishing families and has long depended on fishing as its primary source of livelihood. Over the last several years, however, the island has become one of the most visible examples of the devastating rise in Lake Turkana's water level. Why is Long'ech Island sinking? Long'ech Island is not literally "sinking" into the earth. Instead, it is being gradually submerged by the rising waters of Lake Turkana. Scientists attribute this to a combination of factors, including: 1. Exceptionally heavy rainfall in the Ethiopian Highlands, where the Omo River—Lake Turkana's main source of water—originates. 2. Increased inflow from the Omo River after years of above-average rainfall. 3. Climate variability and climate change, which have altered rainfall patterns across East Africa. 4. Natural tectonic activity within the East African Rift System, which may also influence lake levels. What has happened to the island? The rising lake has had severe consequences: 1. Large sections of Long'ech have disappeared beneath the water. 2. Homes have been abandoned or destroyed. 3. Graves and cultural heritage sites have been submerged. 4. Fishing landing beaches have vanished. 5. Residents have been forced to relocate to higher ground. 6. Boats are now essential for reaching places that were once accessible on foot. Impact on the community For the people of Long'ech, the effects extend far beyond property loss: 1. Families have lost homes and household belongings. 2. Fishing activities have become more difficult because traditional landing sites are underwater. 3. Children face challenges accessing schools. 4. Clean drinking water has become harder to obtain in some areas. 5. Rising waters have increased encounters with Nile crocodiles, creating a serious safety risk for fishermen and lakeside communities. Is the water still rising? Yes. Lake Turkana has remained at historically high levels since around 2018, and some lakeside communities continue to experience flooding and shoreline erosion. The exact future water level will depend on rainfall patterns and inflows from the Omo River, but experts continue to monitor the situation closely. Why Long'ech matters Long'ech Island has become a powerful symbol of how environmental change can transform communities. What was once a stable fishing settlement is now a reminder of the impact that changing climate patterns and natural geological processes can have on livelihoods, culture, and heritage around Lake Turkana. Geography and EnvironmentLocation: Situated within Turkana Central sub-county along and on the waters of Lake Turkana. Climate Impact: Rising lake water levels have frequently submerged local paths, flooded homes, and displaced hundreds of resident households. Economy and Community Projects Fishing and Solar Energy: Fishing is the primary economic driver, supported by solar-powered cooling and energy innovations from organizations like Adili Solar Hubs to help preserve fish stock. Local Needs: Community members actively work with county health departments and relief groups for mobile health outreach, maternal care improvements, and flood recovery support. Residents in this area of Kang’atotha ward and along the lake shores have been affected by the rising waters. Longech island is a hidden gem in lake Turkana. Its untouched. With its calm shores, beautiful views. its perfect for those seeking a peaceful adventure off the beaten path. #iammarwa #tembeakenya #kenyatravel #kenya #lakevictoria #viralvideo #travelvlog #africadocumentary #africa #wodemaya #deemwango #documentary #island #sinking #turkana #viral #viralvideo