DFID-Kenya to support engagement of communities, oil companies and NGOs in Turkana, Kenya

The UK’s Department for International Development (DFID-Kenya) has said it is committed to Turkana County Government that it will support engagement of communities, with oil companies and NGOs, for local development of areas affected by oil explorations.

Speaking during the signing of the framework, Head of DFID Kenya, Lisa Phillips said the engagement will allow the community to be part of the decision making process.

“The UK is excited about discoveries of oil and gas in Kenya. It’s important that there is wide consultation as the extractives industry in Kenya grows; that this brings communities in and allows them to be part of the decision making process, and to share in the benefits,” she said.

Lisa adds that this and other UK Aid projects will work to ensure that these crucial resources are developed for the benefit of all Kenyans.

This year the UK government has invested £3.5 million aimed at providing technical assistance to central Government, and to support to County level social investment in the extractive sector.

Turkana to date has seen the largest discoveries of oil in Kenya currently estimated by Africa Oil at about 1.29 billion barrels. Tullow Oil headquartered in London is the operator in all this blocks in the county namely 10BA, 10BB and 13T.