Turkana County government has obtained Sh2.94 billion grant from the British Government for sensitization of the local community ahead of the commencement of oil production.
Governor Josphat Nanok said there is need for the community to be taken on board at the onset of the production phase by Tullow Oil Company to manage public expectations.
Speaking at Moi Gardens in Lodwar on Friday during Jamhuri Day celebrations, Governor Nanok said negotiations for the grant have been finalized and that the money will be disbursed beginning January next year.
He said the funds which have been provided by the UK. Department for International Development (DfID) will be used over a five and a half year period.
Nanok said the county administration would hold discussions with the communities living around the oil fields and the leadership on how to position themselves commercially to reap from the expected boom.
“We have to decide on what to do with our land, livestock and businesses so we can gain as the oil is taken to the market” said Nanok.
Meanwhile the Governor said already some of the people living within the precincts of Napuu acquifer have started benefitting from the underground water through the boreholes sunk by the administration to revamp water provision services.
He said a bill is being drafted to have the Lodwar Water and Sewerage Services Company (LOWASCO) administered by the County government.
Water billing is to be computerized to curb theft and help bring down the cost of water distribution services in the long run.
