Eldoret: The Joint Committee of the Departmental Committee on Energy and the Senate Standing Committee on Energy convened a public participation forum at the Multi-Purpose County Hall in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu. The event aimed to gather insights from stakeholders and the general public to enhance the South Lokichar Field Development Plan (FDP) in anticipation of crude oil transportation by December this year.
According to Kenya News Agency, the joint committee, led by Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang and Narok East MP Aramat Lemanken, also engaged with Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii's deputy, Evans Kapkea, and representatives from railway and road agencies. The discussions focused on the South Lokichar Field Development Plan, which involves several counties including Turkana, West Pokot, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Mombasa, and Lamu, as the oil will be transported by trucks to Lamu.
Senator Kisang emphasized the importance of engaging communities that will be impacted by the oil operations. The forum highlighted the potential for significant business and traffic activity, with expectations of 200 lorries daily in the first phase and about 500 in the second phase. The increased traffic is anticipated to exert pressure on roads, raising concerns about potential accidents and the need for infrastructure improvements.
The development is expected to strain Kenya's pipeline storage, necessitating expanded infrastructure. The railway system will also require upgrades to accommodate crude oil transportation safely. MP Aramat stressed the focus on key counties that will play a crucial role in the oil evacuation process.
Uasin Gishu NEMA Director Solomon Kihiu assured adherence to environmental regulations, while KeNHA North Rift Regional Director Eng. Philemon Kipkoech outlined ongoing road expansions to support oil transport. Public representatives expressed optimism about the economic growth and employment opportunities the project could bring.
Suggestions for establishing a refinery in Eldoret were made to boost development and open investment opportunities. Residents also called for a legal framework to ensure community benefits through Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. They urged the government to support local businesses along the transport corridor to enhance livelihoods.