The Turkana County Government conducted a routine inspection of the Tullow Oil fields to ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards and regulations. The inspection was led by Phoebe Ekal, Director for Environment.
“Protecting our environment and the health of our people and their livestock is the county’s core mandate,” said Ekal.
She emphasized the county’s commitment to holding Tullow Oil accountable and ensuring they operate within the legal frameworks for environmental conservation set by both national and county governments. Ekal noted that such inspection visits would 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 the environment and water sources.
Director Ekal added that the inspection could assist in the 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 in the 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 the inspection were county environment officers and Tullow Oil representatives.
