Gayathi, UAE, 18th February 2026 (Governor’s Press Service)A high-level delegation from Turkana County comprising County Secretary Dr. Amb. Richard Ekai and Director for Climate Change George Emase formed part of the Kenyan team that conducted a physical assessment of the Great Wall Drilling Company’s (GWDC) 70 drilling rig.

The visit which was undertaken at the invitation of Gulf Energy and followed a formal delegation by Governor Dr. Jeremiah Ekamais Lomorukai Napotikan, was meant to ensure that the rig meets the highest industry standards before operations commence.

This inspection forms a crucial part of the quality assurance, performance evaluation and safety verification process ahead of its deployment to the South Lokichar Basin in Turkana County.

During the inspection, the team carried out a detailed technical evaluation of the rig’s operational systems and safety mechanisms. Recommendations were issued to fine-tune readiness and guarantee seamless performance once the rig is mobilized to Turkana.

The delegation described the engagement as both enlightening and productive, noting that it provided valuable insight into the rig’s capabilities and operational preparedness.Beyond the mechanics and machinery, the team also focused on GWDC’s environmental friendliness.

They established that the company has undertaken initiatives to rehabilitate and green its operational areas by planting trees, grass and flowers around its sites. A greenhouse project is already operational, where vegetables are cultivated to supply fresh produce to drilling crews.