Leaders from Turkana County have expressed concern that their voice has been left out of the ongoing consultations on the exploration of oil. They now want to be part of consultations that will benefit the locals from the oil find in Lokichar, Turkana County. The Turkana people said there is need to include them in the consultations as they expect improved service delivery in terms of education, health as well as improved infrastructure. Towards this end, they now want a meeting with Energy Minister Kiraitu Murungi to enable them pass their grievances. The issue cropped up during a stakeholders' meeting between Turkana professionals, Government officials and Tullow Oil Company, which is struck oil in Lokichar area way back in March. Tullow Oil Company officials reminded those present at the forum that there was a lot involved before the actual drilling could commence and assured the community of their dedication towards ensuring the community benefits. A local leader, Beatrice Asukul said the Energy Minister, Kiraitu Murungi and the Permanent Secretary in the ministry should come out in person and meet Turkana leaders. The government has however assured the people of its commitment to ensure that the community benefits from the oil resource. The government through the Ministry of Energy say there is an ongoing process of revising the Petroleum Exploration Act that deals with sharing of revenue from oil exploration ventures. Petroleum Energy Commissioner Martin Heyya said they are in the process of revising the Act to put it in line with the current constitution.
