Residents and leaders in Turkana have raised alarm over the proposed commercial oil extraction in the county, highlighting a lack of a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and expressing doubts about the safety of the project. During public forums held at Nakukulas and Lopii centres on Thursday, questions over health risks, environmental protection, and community benefits dominated discussions. Turkana East MP Nicholas Ngikolong said the community has not received sufficient information about the project’s potential effects on their health and environment. He stressed that the EIA report is essential before any oil exploration or production can move forward. “We need that report now, not later, so that we clearly understand the benefits of this project against the potential negative effects it may expose our people to,” Hon. Nicholas told residents. He warned that without clear documentation, communities remain unaware of the long-term impact on their land, water, and livelihoods.

Other local leaders shared concerns from previous oil exploration conducted by Tullow Oil, citing reports of unexplained health problems, including respiratory illnesses and miscarriages among women. Such experiences, they said, continue to create mistrust and anxiety among residents. Beyond health, leaders emphasised the importance of plans for decommissioning oil sites. They insisted that any project must include legally binding commitments to restore land after production ends, as pastoralism remains the backbone of Turkana’s economy. The National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) was criticised for failing to enforce environmental safeguards and for inadequate community engagement. Residents recalled incidents where livestock reportedly died after drinking water suspected to be contaminated during earlier drilling. Leaders stressed the need for strict monitoring of waste disposal and effluents from oil wells.

Locals also called on Gulf Energy and the national government to invest in social infrastructure as part of the project’s benefits. Key demands included building a modern Level Six hospital to address potential health challenges and improve access to quality medical services in the historically underserved region. Experts say an EIA is not just a legal requirement but a critical tool for protecting public health while promoting economic development. They warn that the lack of transparency risks escalating community opposition and undermining Kenya’s oil ambitions. Committee Chairperson and Nakuru East legislator David Gikaria assured residents that all their concerns would be reflected in the final committee report after the public participation process concludes.