Tullow Oil, a multinational oil and gas exploration company, will resume its operations in Turkana and estimates that over the coming 25-year period, Kenya will now extract and export at least 120,000 barrels of high-standard crude oil to both regional and international refineries.
Tullow Oil’s Franklin Juma expressed satisfaction that the refinery conforms with international standards for crude oil extraction. In Turkana East and South, respectively, ten of the forty oil wells that were drilled resulted in crude oil resources. The crude oil’s extracts, which were assessed and sampled, showed that it has less hydrogen sulfide than the same product analyzed and sampled in some of Africa’s top oil exporters, such as Nigeria.
The crude oil market in Turkana East and Turkana South is in high demand in the Emirates, Asia, and China. Lamu port is the export zone, and four of the ten oil wells with the potential to produce commercial quantities of crude oil have already been developed. Six additional wells are still under development. Despite the company’s insistence that it has the financial resources to begin the $500 billion commercial extraction stage, which will see the development of the 10 oil wells complete in 3 years, Tullow Oil acknowledged that it is facing credit challenges from lenders who are keen on investing in green renewable energy as opposed to fossil remittances through oil and gas exploration.
The 824-kilometer, 20-inch carbon steel oil pipeline from Turkana to Lamu port has already been drawn out by the Ministry of Lands and National Lands Commission and passes through six counties, including Garrisa and Isiolo, although Kenya, according to President Ruto, is advancing swiftly toward securing renewable energy through the "green revolution."
The decision to resume operations in Turkana comes after a period of careful assessment and strategic planning by Tullow Oil. The company has reaffirmed its commitment to responsible and sustainable operations, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship, community engagement, and regulatory compliance.
One of the key factors driving Tullow Oil's decision to resume operations is the improved investment climate in Kenya's energy sector. In recent years, the Kenyan government has implemented various reforms aimed at attracting investment and streamlining regulatory processes in the oil and gas industry. These efforts have been instrumental in creating a more conducive environment for oil exploration and production activities.
Furthermore, Tullow Oil's decision underscores the company's confidence in the long-term potential of Turkana's oil reserves. Despite facing setbacks in the past, Tullow Oil remains optimistic about the prospects of commercial oil production in the region. The company has continued to invest in exploration activities and technological innovation to unlock the full potential of Turkana's oil resources.
In addition to the economic benefits of oil production, the resumption of operations in Turkana is expected to have a positive impact on local communities. Tullow Oil has reiterated its commitment to supporting sustainable development initiatives in the region, including job creation, skills development, and infrastructure improvement projects. By fostering socio-economic development in Turkana, Tullow Oil aims to create lasting benefits for local residents and contribute to poverty alleviation efforts in the area.
However, it is essential to recognize that the resumption of oil operations in Turkana also poses certain challenges and risks. Environmental conservation and protection remain paramount concerns, particularly given Turkana's unique ecosystem and biodiversity. Tullow Oil must adhere to stringent environmental standards and mitigation measures to minimize the ecological impact of its activities.
Moreover, effective stakeholder engagement and community consultation will be crucial for building trust and fostering positive relationships with local communities. Tullow Oil must work closely with community leaders, government authorities, and civil society organizations to address concerns, resolve disputes, and ensure that the benefits of oil production are shared equitably among all stakeholders.
Additionally, Tullow Oil must navigate the complex geopolitical dynamics of the region, including potential conflicts over land rights, resource ownership, and revenue sharing. The company must demonstrate transparency and accountability in its dealings with government officials and other stakeholders to avoid allegations of corruption or exploitation.
Despite these challenges, the resumption of operations in Turkana represents a significant opportunity for Tullow Oil to contribute to Kenya's economic development and energy security goals. By leveraging its technical expertise, financial resources, and global experience, Tullow Oil can play a leading role in unlocking the potential of Turkana's oil reserves and driving sustainable growth in the region.
In conclusion, Tullow Oil's decision to resume operations in Turkana is a positive development for Kenya's energy sector and the country's overall development agenda. However, it is essential for Tullow Oil to approach its activities in Turkana with caution, responsibility, and a long-term perspective. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, community engagement, and good governance, Tullow Oil can maximize the benefits of oil production while minimizing its social and environmental costs.