High expectations as more oil discovered

What you need to know:

  • Oil exploration which is also fast attracting tourism in the area is expected to transform Turkan both socially and economically.
  • Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok said proceeds from the wealth from the explorations of oil will be channelled to other sectors such as health, infrastructure, and education.
  • Sports and Culture Permanent Secretary Richard Ekai urged residents to embrace education and take advantage of their talents to be productive.

There was good news in Turkana County on Sunday as more oil deposits were discovered.

Tullow Oil Company has announced discovery of more oil at Etom-1 exploration well heightening expectations for pastoralists.

This came as the region launched a culture and tourism weekend extravaganza in Lodwar town.

Oil exploration which is also fast attracting tourism in the area is expected to transform Turkan both socially and economically.

Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok said proceeds from the wealth from the explorations of oil will be channelled to other sectors such as health, infrastructure, and education.

“With devolution, developments are slowly taking shape and we are opening up areas that have been inaccessible by roads,” Mr Nanok said.

He said 70 percent of this financial year’s budget allocation will go to development.

Tourism executive Lynus Ebenyo said over 50 tourism sites have already been mapped out. He said roads leading to the sites are being graded.

Sports and Culture Permanent Secretary Richard Ekai urged residents to embrace education and take advantage of their talents to be productive.

Meanwhile, Turkana Central MP John Lodepe wants the county government to keep an eye on land in the area. “We know some people will be out to grab our land because it is rich in resources. We must stop such individuals,” Mr Lodepe said.

CULTURAL EVENT

Deputy governor Peter Lokoel who also spoke at the cultural event said West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin was ready peace along the volatile Turkana-Pokot border and announced that they well soon meet.

The Turkana County tourism and cultural festival will be an annual event to be celebrated on the last week of August, according to Mr Nanok.

“With this huge turnout, it is evident that this event will be even bigger in future,” Mr Nanok said.