When Tullow Oil started exploring oil in the Northern part of Kenya, there was uproar from the local community. The people of Turkana needed to know if there are gains for them from the exploration.
Turkana has, generally, lagged behind in development for many years.
In June 2018, the exploration had to be suspended, citing security concerns. This was after the protesters blocked roads and disrupted operations in the South Lokichar oil fields.
Operations in the oil fields resumed in August 2018. Ever since, Tullow oil has been on the forefront in ensuring the local community benefits from the project.
Speaking at a media breakfast held at Sarova Stanley on 20th August 2018, Tullow oil MD, Martin Mbogo, said that two thirds of workers at the project are locals. The company aims to create roughly 10,000 jobs by the year 2022.
Employment opportunities in the region will empower the locals who have been marginalized for decades. It will enable them to start businesses and have access to education, healthcare, and other key amenities.
Tullow oil expects to complete the 821Km pipeline from Lokichar to Lamu in three years time. This will open up the Northern region to developments in terms of road, rail, telecommunication and power. As a result, investors will be attracted to the area that has so much potential for development.
The oil from Turkana will be exported through the port of Lamu.
Tullow Oil is a multinational oil and gas exploration company founded in Tullow, Ireland. Its headquarter is situated in London, United Kingdom.
Tullow Oil has interests in over 150 licenses across 25 countries with 67 producing fields. The company has partnered with Africa Oil and Total in their activities in Kenya.
