Lokichar, July 17, 2024 (Public Communication and Media Relations)

The County Government of Turkana conducted a routine inspection of the Tullow Oil fields to ascertain the potential hazardous conditions that could affect both the environment and local communities.

Led by the Director for Environment, Phoebe Ekal, the routine inspection aimed to ensure that Tullow Oil Company complies with environmental and safety standards and regulations.

“Protecting our environment and the health of our people and their livestock is the county’s core mandate,” said Ekal.

Noting that the county was committed to holding Tullow Oil accountable and ensuring they operate within the legal frameworks for environmental conservation set by both national and county governments, Director Ekal said that such inspection visits will be regular.

The inspection covered various sections of the oil fields, including drilling sites, storage facilities, and waste disposal areas, to ensure proper waste management practices and identify potential leaks that might contaminate environment and water sources.

Director Ekal added that the inspection could assist in detection of harmful gases that could adversely affect the livelihoods of communities residing along the Turkana South Oil Basin.

Tullow Oil Field Operation Supervisor, Ken Ogutu, assured the county team of their compliance with all legal frameworks and emphasized their commitment to environmental stewardship and community welfare.

“We are operating within the legal frameworks, undertaking routine maintenance of oil storage tanks, oil wells, and fields,” Ogutu stated.

He added that Tullow Oil has also planted over 600 Neem trees at Twiga One area to help counter carbon emissions.

The inspection highlights the ongoing efforts by the County Government to safeguard the environment and ensure that oil extraction activities do not compromise the health and well-being of its residents.

Present during inspection were county environment officers and Tullow Oil representatives.