Opiyo Wandayi vows to revive Tullow Oil as he seeks ministerial post

Energy Cabinet Secretary nominee Opiyo Wandayi has pledged to revive the Tullow Oil Turkana project if approved by Parliament.

During his vetting by the National Assembly Committee on Appointments on Saturday, August 3, Wandayi emphasised that while the oil in the Turkana fields is still available, the project's progress has been hindered by a lack of sufficient funding.

"Tullow Oil is still there. What it lacks is the requisite capacity to commercially develop the oil reserves in the South Lokichar Basin. If approved, I will ensure Tullow Oil is revived," Wandayi stated.

For years, the government has sought a strategic partner and financial aid of approximately $3.5 billion, following the exit of Total and Africa Oil, which together held a 50 per cent stake in the project.

In 2022, Tullow Oil announced plans to withdraw from the project due to funding challenges.

Opiyo contends that the project is not dead but has merely been on hold.

He warned that if the revival is not expedited, the country may miss out as the global shift away from fossil fuels accelerates.

Other projects Wandayi intends to fast-track if he assumes office include the development and commissioning of power transmission lines such as Narok-Bomet and Turkwel-Kitale, in efforts to reduce power outages.

Wandayi's nomination seeks to replace former Energy CS Davis Chirchir.

His net worth is estimated at Sh530 million, comprising cash, real estate, and farms.