The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has confirmed that laboratory analysis of soil and water samples from the South Lokichar Oil Basin shows no evidence of petroleum contamination, following its latest environmental monitoring exercise.
The findings were shared during a meeting between Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai and a delegation from EPRA led by Assistant Director for Environment, Health and Safety Clement Nadio and Regional Manager Eng. Joel Sutter, who said the monitoring exercise is at an advanced stage.
The meeting reaffirmed cooperation between the county government and EPRA in promoting responsible petroleum development, environmental protection, public health and safety, and the welfare of host communities.
Governor Lomorukai said the county plans to build capacity for officials in upstream petroleum management and is developing legislation to guide management of the county’s 20 percent share and the host community’s 5 percent share of petroleum revenue under the Petroleum Act 2019.
Engineer Sutter said EPRA will continue routine environmental monitoring across the basin to ensure compliance with national petroleum and environmental regulations while strengthening community engagement and transparency in oil development activities in Turkana County.
The meeting was also attended by County Secretary Dr. Amb. Richard Ekai and senior officials from the county government and EPRA.
By Peter Gitonga
