National Land Commission Launches Probe into Turkana Land Disputes Amid Preparations for Crude Oil Exports

The National Land Commission has begun investigating land disputes in the Lokichar region of Turkana County as Kenya gears up for its first commercial crude oil exports later in 2026.

On January 6, 2026, a team from the commission, headed by Commissioners Tiya Galgalo and Esther Murugi, visited Lodwar and Lokichar to conduct a preliminary assessment. The focus was on land tenure issues, property acquisitions, compensation processes, and adherence to land and petroleum laws in areas tied to oil development. This initial visit sets the stage for a comprehensive investigation planned to start in July 2026.

The inquiry comes at a critical time, with rising conflicts over land ownership and compensation as oil activities intensify. Local communities have raised concerns about limited job opportunities, delayed sharing of benefits, and previous environmental effects from exploration work. The commission's efforts also aim to build stronger collaboration between Turkana County authorities and national government bodies.

During the visit, the team held discussions with a range of officials, including the Turkana County Commissioner, County Executive Committee Member for Lands Faith Aletia Ekuwam, Lokichar Ward MCA Samuel Lomodu, and Turkana Central Assistant County Commissioner Dominic Kinyanjui. Talks covered logistical support, security arrangements, office facilities for the inquiry, and the increasing disputes in oil exploration zones.

Commissioner Tiya Galgalo encouraged local leaders to back the oil initiatives while pushing for real benefits to reach communities. She stressed the importance of clear and accurate information to avoid confusion and potential clashes. Commissioner Esther Murugi highlighted that compensation and legal recognition apply only to formally registered land parcels. She cautioned residents about risks from unofficial land deals that might spark future problems.

Representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum joined the meetings, along with officials from Gulf Energy, which recently took over assets previously held by Tullow Oil in the South Lokichar Basin. They reviewed regulatory standards, project schedules, and the need for active community engagement, especially in key sites like the Amosin and Ngamia fields where much of the exploration happens.

Kenya first discovered oil in the Lokichar Basin back in 2012, with further drilling confirming reserves suitable for commercial production. Once the export pipeline to Lamu is finished, output could hit up to 120,000 barrels per day. The government has approved a updated development plan and is targeting December 2026 for the beginning of exports, with full-scale production expected in early 2027, according to Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi.

Other commission members on the mission included Joel Ombati, Director of Valuation and Taxation, and Sospeter Ohanya, Head of Survey Services. Resolving these land issues is seen as essential to keeping the oil project on track and delivering fair advantages to local residents.