Senator Lomenen demands action on frequent power blackouts, environmental concerns in Turkana

Turkana County Senator James Lomenen has raised concerns over frequent power blackouts and electricity rationing affecting Lodwar and other key towns in Turkana County.

In a statement before the house, Lomenen expressed dissatisfaction with how the blackout inconveniences the residents.

"The people of Turkana deserve reliable electricity, and it is essential that we connect our major towns to the National Power Grid," he said

As a result, he requested the Standing Committee on Energy to provide a comprehensive update on the situation.

In his statement, Senator Lomenen calls for clarity on the progress made to connect major towns such as Lodwar, Lokori, Kalokol, Kakuma, and Lokichoggio to the National Power Grid.

He also wants to know what steps the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) is taking to expand electricity infrastructure in the region and the status of stalled projects aimed at improving electrification.

"We cannot afford to have stalled projects when our communities are in desperate need of power," Lomenen stated.

Additionally, the senator has asked the committee to report on measures being implemented by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) to enhance power supply from the Turkwel Power Station.

Lomenen is also calling for the Standing Committee on Land, Environment and Natural Resources to investigate the health and environmental impacts of oil and gas drilling by Tullow Kenya B.V. in the South Lokichar Basin.

He has requested details on the waste management protocols in place to prevent contamination of water, soil, and air around the drilling sites.

The senator is keen to know if these protocols are included in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports and whether they are being followed.

The lawmaker has also asked for an update on environmental monitoring assessments conducted in the drilling areas from 2019 to the present, including any remedial actions taken in response to identified issues.

Furthermore, Senator Lomenen wants to know what steps Tullow Kenya B.V. is taking to address any environmental damage caused by its operations, particularly in the Lomokamar and Kangingolemongin areas.

He has also inquired about any compensation provided to residents who have lost livestock or suffered damages due to the company's activities.

In addition, the Senator is urging the Standing Committee on National Security, Defence, and Foreign Relations to examine the failures of the flood control project on River Kawalase.

He seeks an explanation for the project's shortcomings, accountability for negligence, and recommendations for immediate support and compensation for affected families.

Senator Lomenen is also interested in long-term strategies to strengthen flood control measures in the region to prevent future disasters.