This archive report was first published on 21 August 2019.
Kenya's Northern region, particularly Turkana, has long faced development challenges. However, the discovery of oil by Tullow Oil in the area has brought about a new era of growth and transformation.
Published on August 21, 2019, Tullow Oil's commitment to ensuring local communities benefit from the project has been a significant step forward. In June 2018, operations in the South Lokichar oil fields were suspended due to security concerns, but resumed in August of the same year.
Tullow Oil's Managing Director, Martin Mbogo, emphasized the company's efforts to create opportunities for the local community during a media breakfast in August 2018. He noted that two-thirds of the project's workforce are locals, with a goal to create approximately 10,000 jobs by 2022.
The employment opportunities generated by the project have empowered the local community, enabling them to start businesses, access education, healthcare, and other essential amenities. Furthermore, the construction of an 821km pipeline from Lokichar to Lamu is expected to be completed within three years, opening up the region to further development in terms of road, rail, telecommunications, and power.
With the oil from Turkana set to be exported through the port of Lamu, the region is poised for significant growth and investment. Tullow Oil, a multinational oil and gas exploration company, has a presence 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.
