Residents of Turkana County are calling for compensation for land designated for oil production before Gulf Energy initiates commercial extraction activities. Community members from Nakukulas and Lokichar emphasized that compensation must be settled for land at the Amosing and Ngamia-1 oil fields prior to the start of operations.
The demands were voiced during a community sensitisation forum organized by GreenFaith Kenya, an environmental faith-based group advocating for land rights, climate justice, and environmental protection.
Compensation and Community Rights at the Forefront
GreenFaith Kenya urged residents to assert their land rights, highlighting that compulsory land acquisition should only proceed once fair compensation is paid. The Ministry of Energy issued a Gazette Notice in October to acquire land, with the National Land Commission (NLC) tasked to oversee due processes ensuring community compensation.
Residents expressed support for development but stressed that their rights and compensation must be prioritized. One community member stated, "The oil belongs to both us and the government. We must first be informed properly before anything proceeds."
Concerns Over Delayed Community Benefits
Selina Lokaale, a resident of Nakukulas, raised concerns about the delay in receiving the legislated five percent community share of oil revenues. She urged leaders to expedite processes to ensure the benefits reach the local population.
Additionally, residents criticized local leadership for not prioritizing community welfare and called on the government to conduct security operations, including the recovery of illegal firearms, with respect for residents’ rights.
Ongoing Land Disputes and Investigations
These renewed calls come months after the NLC launched a preliminary inquiry into land disputes related to petroleum development in Lokichar. The inquiry focuses on land ownership, compulsory acquisition, compensation, community rights, and compliance with relevant laws.
NLC commissioners, along with officials from the Ministry of Energy and Gulf Energy, have held consultations addressing project timelines, compensation, and community participation.
Kenya aims to begin commercial oil production in Turkana by the end of 2026, with the Lokichar Basin expected to yield up to 120,000 barrels daily once fully operational. However, residents insist that all compensation and community concerns must be resolved before extraction commences.
