Kenya set to begin oil production in Turkana

PETER GITONGA-KNA

Kenya is on the brink of a new era of energy independence, with oil production from the South Lokichar Basin expected to begin before the end of the year.

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi made the announcement during a historic groundbreaking ceremony marking the official start of oil field development operations in Turkana County.

Wandayi assured Kenyans that the national and county governments, together with Gulf Energy, will work hand in hand to ensure the project’s success.

The groundbreaking marks a major milestone, paving the way for full-scale operations, including the deployment of rigs, as well as the prospecting and drilling of new boreholes.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the first consignment of crude oil is projected to be ready for export by the first week of December 2026.

“It has taken a long time for oil production to become a reality. We must thank the President for his commitment to ensuring this resource benefits the country,” Wandayi said.

He pointed out that the commencement of oil field development in South Lokichar Basin marks a turning point for Kenya’s energy sector.

“It signals not only the country’s readiness to harness its natural resources but also the government’s determination to ensure that the benefits of oil production extend to local communities.

"With the promise of jobs, infrastructure, and economic growth, Turkana is poised to become a hub of transformation, driven by the energy sector,” said the CS.

 He emphasized that the government has already launched a security operation to address insecurity, which has long been cited as a major challenge to the project.

The CS noted that water scarcity remains another obstacle, but assured residents that the Kenya Defence Forces will be deployed to guarantee that water from Turkwel Dam benefits communities in Turkana and West Pokot counties.

East African Community, Regional Development, and Arid and Semi-Arid Lands Cabinet Secretary Beatrice Askul echoed Wandayi’s sentiments, stressing that an inclusive approach will be adopted to address concerns raised by local communities, particularly in Turkana South and Turkana East.

She urged residents to support Gulf Energy, reiterating President William Ruto’s commitment to reviving the local economy and creating employment opportunities through the oil project.

Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus underscored the importance of structured negotiations between the County Government and Gulf Energy on revenue sharing from oil and gas operations.

He revealed that plans are underway to form a special committee to engage the firm on matters of economic opportunities, infrastructure development, environmental protection and other emerging issues.

“We are forming an all-inclusive committee comprising leaders, technical staff and professionals to hold structured talks with Gulf Energy on revenue sharing and the provisions of the Oil Field Development Plan.

"We have already held an initial consultative meeting on the same,” Dr. Erus said. He added that the county expects the talks to address residents’ concerns comprehensively, ensuring that the benefits of oil production are felt locally.