Kerio Valley residents want compensation to pave way for oil extraction

Kerio Valley residents have threatened to scuttle oil extraction in the area saying they had not been consulted.

Tullow Oil has identified Block 12A, which covers the semi-arid Kerio Valley cutting across Baringo and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties as potential areas for exploration.

However, through the umbrella Kapnorok Farmers lobby group, the residents bordering Lake Kamnarok Game Reserve in Baringo County have vowed to stay put in their ancestral land until plans are made to compensate and resettle them to pave way for the extraction.

Tullow respomse

“Nobody is opposed to the project because we are aware it will improve our socio-economic development. But from the onset, it should be clear how we shall benefit and be issued with tittle deeds,” said lobby chairman Joseph Kiptala.

He also raised concern that during the concluded seismic tests, property including crops were destroyed but they were not compensated.

However, Tullow Kenya Social Performance manager Robbert Gerrits said access to the land will only be required on a temporary basis and assured residents that they will not lose their land.

“Everything we will undertake will be in accordance with the law.

“We will consult relevant government agencies, county leadership as well as the local community,” said Mr Gerrits.