Professional Documents
Culture Documents
PREPARED BY:
NEMA Registered Environmental and Social Impact Assessment & Auditing Firm of Experts (Ref: 0296)
Environmental Planning and Management Consultants
4th Floor, Utumishi Co-op House, Mamlaka Road, off Nyerere Road.
P.O. Box, 45952 GPO 00100, Nairobi, Kenya,
Cell: 0733-733598/0725-259377
Email: info@ecolifeconsultium.com
Website:http://www.ecolifeconsultium.com
THE PROPONENT:
AFREN EAST AFRICAN EXPLORATION (K) LTD.
th
OR
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
DECLARATION
This Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Study Report was prepared by Ecolife Consulting
Ltd. of P.O. Box 45952-00100, Nairobi, Kenya. This ESIA Report is an outcome of data collection, synthesis,
analysis and interpretation of information to our best of our professional knowledge.
ESIA Team: Ecolife Consulting Ltd.
Dr. John K. Musingi Team Leader & Lead Environmental Expert
Tom Nzibe Mwalali Environmental Consultant
Shadrack Ngewa Environmental Consultant
Joseph Muema Social Impact Assessment Consultant
Benedict Kitonyi Environmental & Social Impact Assessment Officer
PROJECT BUDGET
Estimated project cost is Ksh 100,000,000.00 (say Kenya Shillings One hundred million only)
The NEMA fee @ 0.1% of the Project cost is Ksh 1000,000.00 (say Kenya shillings one hundred thousand
Only)
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
NAME OF PARTICIPANT
NAME OF ORGANISATION
CONTACT DETAILS
0712196503
0720816705
Ambia A. Osman
0720969074
Yussuf Abdi
Oliver I. C. Mwigana
Jimale Mohamed
Youth Representative
0722970902
Major A. H. Xmiiv
Community Leader
0705848283
Mohamed Abdikadir
0720568388
10
Yussuf Adan
0729899992
11
Adan Mohamed
0721360588
12
Abdillahi Hussein
Former Councilor
0729568668
13
Yussuf Sheikh
Chairman URP
0722248406
14
Muhumed Isaac
0726489660
15
Hussein Omar
Former Councilor
0721295765
16
Hassan Daud
Community Leader
0726228662
17
Suleman Haji
Youth Representative
0722990784
18
Nasir Harun
Chairman CDF
19
Hussein Osman
0712242891
20 Dubow Ali
Consultant
0724166663
21
0725518378
Mohamed Hassan
0720547884
22 P.M. Kilonzo
23 Abui Omar
0720431317
25 Roble Osman
Logistic Officer
0710825282
27 Ahmed M. Waredl
IEIAC
0725869064
24 Mohammed Hassan
0717534294
0720924249
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
Riechi Meroka
S. N. Karanja
M.B Makami
Abdullahi H. Adan
NAME OF ORGANISATION
CONTACT DETAILS
0723270342
Mash Mude D.
Nur Muhumed
Community Elder
10
Ali Kalmuy
0725059093
11
Mohamed Adow
Community Elder
0724314148
12
Community Elder
13
Mohamed Hassan
Community Elder
14
Community Elder
15
Community Elder
16
Habiba Mohamed
Women Elder
0720731483
17
Kheira Birik
Women Elder
18
Barey Ged
Women Elder
19
Maryanne Adow
Women Elder
0722919678
20
Farah Ahmed
Community Elder
0707851018
21
Yussuf Hassan
Community Elder
0714468705
22
Hassan Mohammed
Community Elder
0722283611
23
Mohamed Jelle
Community Elder
0722413673
24
Abdi Abdul
Community Elder
0712846508
25
Jele Salat
Community Elder
26
Community Elder
0736295631
27
Bishar Shriibabdi
Community Elder
28
Abdi Ali
Community Elder
29
Abdi Jimale
Community Elder
0724631845
30
Ahmed Jelle
Community Elder
0713407468
31
Mahat Adan
Community Elder
32
Hussein M.
0720731297
33
Noor Ahmed
Community Elder
0723125629
34
0724873872
0720936143
0722467362
0727714323
0717259144
0723471102
0720171065
0715418081
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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36
Ahmed Mohamed
Osman
Ahmed Mohamed
37
0710434410
38
0731614984
39
Ibrahim Ahmed
0705020331
40
Adan Hassan
0720603039
41
Siyadusas Muhumed
0724141161
42
Bishar Hassan
Ass/Chief Konton
43
4
4
45
4
6
47
4
8
4
9
Mohamed Noor
Community Elder
Mohamud Y. Noor
8493330
0724348196 /
0734343383
0725612195
50
Reuben Ogeda
51
Muhamud Olow
52
Moulid A. Hassan
0723956913
53
Ahmed Mohamed
0723864340
54
Abdi Abdul
0723090853
55
Abdullahi M. Hassan
56
Yussuf Abdi
57
Khorof Harar
County Executive officer - Water, Natural
Resources & Energy Wajir County
Member of Parliament- Wajir County
35
0720793825
0718774469
Mohamed M. Issack
0732623492
Ali Osman
0727834306
0723599315
0722284 164
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This EIA Report was made possible by co-operation of various persons and institutions. We wish to thank
them all and in particular Afren EAX Mangers in UK for awarding us the EIA tender. Special thanks go to
Jeremy Martin, the Country manager for his support, Charles Antelme External Affairs & EHSS, Malcolm
Clare (Seismic Project Manager) and Hillary Simiyu (community liaison and security officer) for their support
in logistical planning of the fieldwork in Wajir County.
We wish also to acknowledge the various persons in Wajir County who made our work possible and in
particular, the Governors Office and the Member of Parliament. We say thank you to the following from
Wajir County: Hon Mr. Abass Sheikh- Member of Parliament, Wajir East Mr. Yussuf Abdi County Executive
Officer (Water, Natural Resources & Energy), Hon Fatuma Ibrahim (County Woman Representative), Hussein
Osman (MCA Khorof Harar), and Oliver I. C. Mwigana (NEMA Ag County Director).
Finally, from the Ecolife Consulting Team of myself, Dr. John Musingi, Shadrack Ngewa, Tom Nzibe, Joseph
Muema and Benedict Kitonyi we say thanks once again for your workshop attendance and contribution. We
however take all the responsibility for all the issues in this Report in which we act on behalf of our client
Afren EAX.
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
SUMMARY OF PARTICULARS
Name and contact address of the proponent: AFREN - EAST AFRICAN EXPLORATION (K) LTD.
Postal Address:
Proposed Activity:
Period of activity:
Lease/Permit Particulars:
Type of Project:
STUDY REPORT
Terms of reference:
Capability of Firm:
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Interest in the Kenyan upstream oil and gas sector has developed significantly following discoveries of oil in
Uganda and recent gas discoveries offshore East Africa. This interest intensified following Tullow Oils
announcement on 26 March 2012 that it and its partners Africa Oil and Centric Energy had discovered
commercial oil deposits in Kenya in the Tertiary Rift Basin.
Under the Petroleum Act, the Minister of Energy has the power to divide Kenya and its continental shelf into
Exploration Blocks which are then issued to interested companies for exploration. This process is done
through what is called Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) in which the companies and the government
negotiate on details of exploration methods and profit sharing in case of commercial hydrocarbons discovery.
East African Exploration Company an affiliate company of Afren Company is the licensed operator of Block
1. This Block covers parts of Wajir and Mandera Counties.
Hydrocarbon exploration has two distinct phases. Phase one deals with data collection of the sub-surface
geological structures of the exploration area through seismic method while phase two is about exploratory
drilling. The proponent finished seismic data collection after acquiring EIA license for the same and now
proposes to do exploratory drilling in an area around Konton which is about 90 Km North East of Wajir
Town in Wajir East Constituency, Wajir County. Block 1 has some positive hydrocarbon history which
requires scientific data through drilling, for instance, an oil seep and tar staining was observed in a water
well, and in an adjacent 52 metre borehole cored by Total at Tarbaj in the south of the block which
demonstrates that oil has been generated at some point in the basins history.
Exploratory drilling is done through drilling of sample points that help to provide more underground truth
about data on hydrocarbons situation since seismic surveys are not exactly conclusive. These require activities
including site preparation, transport of Rig to site, drilling and a Base Camp for the workers in the Rig All
these leave a negative human footprint to the environment and may affect local livelihoods, hence the need
for ESIA.
The consultant conducted an extensive fieldwork in the area analyzing the local natural environment
including vegetation study, hydrological features, soil and socio-economic factors. A desk study was also done
before the actual fieldwork. Wajir County is a semi-arid environment falling in the ecological zone V-VI. Zone
V receives rainfall between 300-600mm annually, has low tree cover, grass and shrubs. On the other hand
zone VI receives an annual rainfall of 200-400mm. The county receives an average of 240 mm of rainfall per
year. The rainfall is usually erratic and short making it unfavorable for extensive vegetation growth. There are
two rainy seasons namely short and long rains. The short rains are experienced between October to
December and the long rains from March to May each year.
The area is dominated by bushes of mostly acacia species. There are also other species that grows in this
semi-arid environment. The soils are thin red soils with high concentration of silica. They are poorly
developed due to lack of adequate moisture.
The main vegetation products include gum and resin, charcoal, firewood, posts, barks, honey, wood carvings
and wild fruits. Firewood is harvested for individual household use and for sale to households living around
town and food kiosks.
The main types of livestock are cattle (mostly Borana type and dairy crosses), sheep, goats (dominantly
Totenberg goats), camels and donkeys. According to the 2009 population and housing census, there were
794, 552 cattle, 1,406,883 sheep, 1,866,226 goats, 115,503 donkeys and 533,651 camels. The production of
milk and meat is estimated at 3,875,940 litres and 191,100 Kgs respectively per year.
East Africa Exploration Ltd.
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
The area has hardly any wildlife mammals due to the displacement of their habitat and hunting. Birds species
are however found in the area especially species that thrive in dry lands.
From our study, it is evident that the areas ecological environment is not sensitive because the population is
highly dispersed and only significantly found around the market centres and Wajir town. Moreover, the
proponent will only require an area of about 500 sq metres for the duration of about five months. There will
only be very mild impact on both the environment and livelihoods. No populations will be displaced. The
proponent will fence off the operation and the Base camp area to minimize contacts with local populace and
livestock. Vegetation will be cleared only when is absolutely necessary. The proponent will have an
independent water source for the operation and domestic use hence no competition over water resources
with the pastoralists. Indeed on decommissioning, the proponent will hand over the camp borehole to the
local community.
In order to get stakeholders involvement, two stakeholder workshops were conducted namely at the county
and community levels. The county level forum was held in Wajir town and had people drawn from all parts
of Wajir County including the representation of the County Government and the National Government. At
the community level the focus was on the actual community that is found at the proposed initial drilling site
in Konton. The workshop was held in Khorof Harar Secondary School.
In conclusion the hydrocarbon exploratory drilling will have only a minimum impact to nature and local
livelihoods. The expected few impacts have been mitigated in this report which provides a comprehensive
Environmental Management Plan, a Risk Assessment and a Monitoring guideline framework for the
proponent to implement. Stakeholders support the project. The project is good for many reasons for example
it will provide data on the hydrocarbon status of the area. It will also engage unskilled and semi-skilled
workforce from the area hence creating local employment for the duration of the project. In the event that
commercial hydrocarbons resources are discovered, then the national, county and local economies will
prosper. Hence the need for the project to be issued with EIA license so that the proponent can begin the
drilling
process
that
will
requires
extensive
preparation
and
investment.
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION .................................................................................................................................................................... 1
STUDY BUDGET ................................................................................................................................................................... 1
LIST OF STAKEHOLDER PARTICIPANTS .................................................................................................................... 2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ..................................................................................................................................................... 5
SUMMARY OF PARTICULARS ........................................................................................................................................ 6
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..................................................................................................................................................... 7
LIST OF FIGURES ............................................................................................................................................................... 11
LIST OF TABLES ................................................................................................................................................................. 11
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS .......................................................................................................... 12
1.0:
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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5.1: FINDINGS...................................................................................................................................................................... 43
5.2: BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT ....................................................................................................................................... 43
5.2.1: Impacts on vegetation ........................................................................................................................................... 43
5.2.2: Impacts on wildlife ............................................................................................................................................... 43
5.2.3: Impacts on soil ...................................................................................................................................................... 43
5.2.4: Waste management mitigation measures ............................................................................................................. 44
5.2.5: Biomedical waste .................................................................................................................................................. 44
5.2.6: Potential impacts on water resources ................................................................................................................... 44
5.2.7: Potential impacts of noise and vibrations ............................................................................................................. 44
5.2.8: Impacts on the physical environment ................................................................................................................... 44
5.2.9: Impacts on Climate Change.................................................................................................................................. 45
5.2.10: Occupational health and Safety and security ..................................................................................................... 45
6.0:
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Hydrocarbon Exploration Basins In Kenya ..................................................................................... 13
Figure 2: Wajir East Kenya and the Extent of Block 1 ................................................................................................... 15
Figure 3: Flow Chart showing various phases of Drilling Activities ............................................................................... 24
Figure 4 Parts of Drilling Rig and a photo showing a Rig .......................................................................................... 25
Figure 5: A typical Base Camp ........................................................................................................................... 26
Figure 6: Drilling Fluid Circulation ............................................................................................................................. 27
Figure 7: Flow chart for Drilling Mud and Solid Discharge ........................................................................................... 29
Figure 8: Example of casing strings............................................................................................................................. 30
Figure 9: illustration of directional drilling .................................................................................................................. 33
Figure 10: Wajir position in Kenya Counties ................................................................................................... 34
Figure 11: Wajir Constituency and Ward administrative units ........................................................................................ 35
Figure 12: Geology of the exploration area (Block 1) ..................................................................................................... 38
Figure 13: Basin Geology Rocks same as in Ogaden Basin .......................................................................................... 38
Figure 14: History of Petroleum Exploration in Block 1 ................................................................................................. 39
Figure 15: Tarbaj Oil Seep .......................................................................................................................................... 39
Figure 16: Known Leads elsewhere in the basin............................................................................................................ 40
Figure 17: Scrubland vegetation dominated by scattered acacia shrubs and isolated bushes. ........................................... 40
Figure 18: Consultative meeting with County Level Key Stakeholders in Wajir (left) and Local Stakeholders in Khorof
(Right) ...................................................................................................................................................................... 47
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Ingredient of Water Based Drilling Fluid .............................................................................................................................................. 26
Table 2: Sample technical details of the proposed drilling activity .............................................................................................................. 27
Table 3: Details of drilling rig(s) to be deployed ................................................................................................................................................ 27
Table 4: Population projections by Division...........................................................................................................................................................41
Table 5: Population distributions and density by administrative division 2008 2012 .......................................................................42
Table 6: Mitigation Measures for Potential Impacts on the Physical Environment............................................................................... 45
Table 7: Risk Analysis and Significance Rating Matrix ..................................................................................................................................... 48
Table 8: Environment Risk Assessment for the Block 1 Test Drilling ......................................................................................................... 49
Table 9: Summary of Effects on Biological, Physical and Socio-Economic Environment ...................................................................... 51
Table 10: Environmental Impact Significance Factor .......................................................................................................................................... 52
Table 11: Environmental Management Plan Matrix.............................................................................................................................................. 52
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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Two Dimensional
N2O
Nitrous Oxide
BOP
NaCl
Sodium Chloride
BPEO
NEMA
DG
Diesel Generator
NOX
Nitrogen Oxides
EAX
PPE
EEM
PSC
EEMS
ROV
EMCA
SO2
Sulphur Dioxide
EMP
TD
Total Depth
EMS
UN
United Nations
GHG
Greenhouse Gases
UNFCCC
HSE
VOC
KFS
WBM
KWS
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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AFREN -EAX
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
No person may engage in any petroleum operations without the Ministers permission. The Petroleum Act
permits the government to conduct petroleum operations either through an oil company established by the
government for that purpose for instance, the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOCK) or through private
contractors that are licensed by the government (acting through the Minister of Energy) under petroleum
agreements.
AFREN - East African Exploration (K) Ltd. was licensed to Operate in Block 1 through a Production Sharing
Contract to undertake hydrocarbon exploration drilling in this block. The likely Exploration Drilling exercise
will consist of drilling an exploration well in Konton Area which is about 90 km North East of Wajir Town.
The exploratory drilling follows the successful completion of a seismic programme which covered 1,900 line
kilometers over Block 1 in both Wajir and Mandera Counties. The interpretation of seismic data has revealed
the need for drilling in the proposed area. Historically, this area has shown signs of presence of hydrocarbons
in the subsurface rocks. We should however note that, accumulations of oil or gas found within the subsurface sedimentary rocks is not necessarily enough evidence that the area has hydrocarbons reserves that
can be commercially exploited. The presence of hydrocarbons in commercial quantities depends upon the
following conditions: a source rock rich in organic carbon, sufficient heat over millions of years to convert the
organic carbon into hydrocarbons, migration pathways to enable the hydrocarbons to migrate upwards from
the source rock, presence of a suitable reservoir rock such as porous limestone or sandstone which must be
sufficiently porous to store the hydrocarbons and, an effective seal of impermeable rock such as clay, shale or
salt above and against the reservoir, thereby forming a closed subsurface structure and preventing further
migration (and hence loss) of the hydrocarbons.
The activities will involve transport of a drilling rig into the area, site preparation and commencement of the
drilling. A rig-site temporary base camp will be build for the workers. All these will be done by the company
that will be given the drilling contract; however the proponent will ensure community liaison matters are
handled by the proponent.
It is expected that the activities like any other human activities will have a marked negative and positive
footprints. These includes, dust, displacement of vegetation at the rig site and the base camp. The
transportation of the rig to the site may also pose traffic risks. The positive aspects include employment and
increased markets for local products.
1.2: Scope of the ESIA
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is one of the most commonly used tools of environmental
management. EIA is used in order to address and mitigate environmental concerns effectively into the project
development process. It is therefore a key part of project development process and is usually done at the
initial stages of the project development. It helps in decision making and should guide on whether a project
should be implemented or modified in design prior to implementation or even abandoned if the impacts are
too severe to mitigate.
Environmental Impact Assessment also referred to as Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)
critically examines the effects of a development project on the environment looking at both negative and
positive impacts of the development activity or project, including how it affects people, their property, and
their environment.
ESIA also identifies measures to mitigate the negative impacts while maximizing on the positive impacts on a
cost benefit analysis. EIA is therefore basically an aspect of precautionary principle because it anticipates that
large scale human activities have adverse impacts on nature and it seeks to minimize these adverse impacts
on the environment and therefore reduce unanticipated risks. In brief, the objectives of this EIA are:
East Africa Exploration Ltd.
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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Generate baseline data for monitoring and evaluating impacts, during the project cycle.
Identify impacts of the drilling and other subsidiary activities on the environment that is - biological,
ecological, physical, economic and cultural impacts
Evaluate the impacts of the various alternatives on the project with a view to identifying the best
alternative(s).
Predict likely changes on the environment as a result of the proposed development.
Propose mitigation measures for the significant negative impacts of the project on the environment.
Highlight environmental issues with a view to guiding policy makers, planners, stakeholders and
government agencies to make environmentally and economically sustainable decisions.
For the ESIA process to be responsive, an integrated approach was used in which ecological, economic and
social equity issues are considered. This involved a comprehensive fieldwork in the proposed Study area to
identify potential negative impacts on the environment, economy, culture and livelihoods and then developing
mitigation measures. These mitigation measures are more effective if they are done through stakeholders and
public consultation. The consultant carried out an environmental scoping of the natural resources including
vegetation, soil, water resources and land uses. The project activities were also discussed with local
stakeholders during a period of two weeks in the fieldwork. Finally, stakeholder workshops were organized at
two levels namely, at the County level in Wajir Town and secondly, at the community level at Konton Khorof Harar Secondary School in Wajir East Constituency Wajir County. The participants included local and
national leaders and also members of the public.
1.3: Location and Coverage Area of the Proposed Exploratory Drilling
Afren East African Exploration (K) Limited proposes to drill an exploratory well in the Konton area in Wajir
East Constituency, Wajir County (Figure 2). The area is about 90 km north east of Wajir town and is
approximately 10 km from Kenya Somalia border. The approximate site coordinates are Lat. 02 2' 14.209"N,
Lon. 40 54' 23.997"E.
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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The operation area vegetation is basically bush land dominated by scrub vegetation of mostly acacia shrubs
and other semi-arid vegetation types. The landscape in largely flat and is dominated by red light soils. The
area has no significant wildlife species.
1.4:Company Environmental Policy (AFREN-EAX)
AFREN-EAX recognizes that drilling activities, like any other human activities have negative environmental
footprints. The company therefore supports sustainable exploration activities that recognize local
environmental integrity and promotes good environmental practices at all levels of operation. The company
therefore complies with all relevant international and national legislative requirements in environmental
protection.
2.0:
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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42. Every person has the right to a clean and healthy environment, which includes the righta) to have the environment protected for the benefit of present and future generations through
legislative and other measures, particularly those contemplated in Article 69; and
b) to have obligations relating to the environment fulfilled under Article 70.
69. (1) The State shall
(a) ensure sustainable exploitation, utilization, management and conservation of the environment and
natural resources, and ensure the equitable sharing of the accruing benefits;
(b) work to achieve and maintain a tree cover of at least ten per cent of the land area of Kenya;
(c) protect and enhance intellectual property in, and indigenous knowledge of, biodiversity and the
genetic resources of the communities;
(d) encourage public participation in the management, protection and conservation of the
environment;
(e) protect genetic resources and biological diversity;
(f) establish systems of environmental impact assessment, environmental audit and monitoring of the
environment;
(g) eliminate processes and activities that are likely to endanger the environment; and
(h) utilize the environment and natural resources for the benefit of the people of Kenya.
(2) Every person has a duty to cooperate with State organs and other persons to protect and conserve
the environment and ensure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources.
The Proponent recognizes these environmental principles as stipulated in the Constitution which aim at
sustainable exploitation, utilization, management and conservation of the environment and natural resources,
and ensure the equitable sharing of the accruing benefits. Afren East African Exploration (K) Ltd. will comply
with this law.
Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA, 1999)
The Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) of 1999 provide detailed guidelines on EIAs
in Kenya. This Law was made so strong that it supersedes all other Laws in Kenya apart from the Kenya
Constitution. If any other Law apart from the Constitution of Kenya conflicts with EMCA then the latter
prevails. EMCA also anticipates proponents to adhere to the provisions of all other relevant provision that
govern new developments. The highlights are given as follows:
According to section 58 of Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act (EMCA) of 1999 legal Notice
No.8, a project proponent whose project falls under the second schedule 9 (i) of the act is required to submit
impact assessment to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
EMCA (Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Audit (EA)) Regulations, 2003
Part V of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Audit (EA) regulations provide for Environmental
Audit and monitoring. The Act provides that an Environmental Impact Assessment shall be undertaken on all
upcoming development activities, which are likely to have adverse environmental impacts. These development
activities include ongoing projects that commenced prior to the coming into force of the fore said
regulations. The proponent has adhered to the provision of this Act by authorizing this EIA process prior to
the commencement of the drilling project.
EMCA (Waste Management) Regulations 2006
East Africa Exploration Ltd.
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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These regulations define the responsibilities of waste generators and define the duties and requirements for
transportation and disposal of waste. It provides for mitigation of pollution and provides for hazardous and
toxic wastes. The regulations require a waste generator to dispose waste only to a designated waste
receptacle. The proponent shall adhere to the regulations and proposes to manage waste prudently both at
the basecamp and the drilling site.
Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act (Noise and Excessive Vibrations) Regulations
2009:
These regulations define noise as any undesirable sound that is intrinsically objectionable or that may
cause adverse effects on human health or the environment. The regulations prohibit any person from
making or causing to be made any loud, unreasonable, unnecessary or unusual noise which annoys,
disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of others and the environment.
The drilling activity will have only low vibration from the drill rig and by vehicular movement. The area is
sparsely settled hence the disturbance to people or wildlife will be minimum. There will be no night
operations at the sight.
Environmental Management and Coordination Act (Wetlands, River Banks, Lake Shores and Sea
Shore Management) Regulation, 2009:
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
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These regulations provide for the protection of all wetlands on both private and public land. The regulations
provide for sustainable exploitation of wetlands and are aimed at maintaining both the wetlands and
hydrological, ecological, social and economic functions and services.
The Environmental Management and Coordination Act (Conservation of Biodiversity and Resources,
Access to Genetic resources and Benefit Sharing) regulations, 2006
Part II- The Environmental Management and Coordination (Conservation of Biodiversity and Resources,
Access to Genetic resources and Benefit Sharing) regulations, 2006; Conservation of Biological Diversity of;
states that:
4 (1) A person shall not engage in any activity that may
(a)have an adverse impact on any ecosystem;
(b) lead to the introduction of any exotic species
(c)lead to unsustainable use of natural resources;
Without an Environmental Impact Assessment License issued by the National Environment Management
Authority (NEMA).The proponent has adhered to the provision of this Act by commissioning this EIA prior
to the commencement of the proposed project.
Wildlife Conservation and Management Act (cap 376)
This Act of parliament is implemented by the Government of Kenya through the Ministry of Environment
and Natural Resources in conjunction with other relevant government agencies such as Kenya Wildlife
Service. The act has provision for the preservation and control of wild fauna and flora. The intention of the
act is to ensure Kenyas fauna and flora flourish naturally in their habitats. Various marine and other national
parks apply the act in protecting flora and fauna in their areas of jurisdiction. The proponent shall not
interfere with any of the local wildlife though it should be noted the area has very limited wildlife species and
populations.
In conclusion, Kenya is therefore well served with legislation to provide for the protection and the
management of the terrestrial environment. However, implementation of the applicable statutes has not
always been as efficient as the legislators intended when parliament enacted the legislation. The EIA process
involved the relevant stakeholders in notifications, presentations, field visits and discussions to adhere with
the legal and administrative framework and to develop mitigation measures relevant to each sector.
The Factories and Other Places of Work Act Cap 514
The Act regulates the conditions under which workers are to operate. This Law among other things, caters
for the occupational health and safety of employees. Factual information about accidents that have happened
at site is to be recorded. The recording of work related injuries and accidents that involve fatalities; lost
workdays, medical treatment, job transfer, termination or loss of consciousness should be reported to the
factory inspectorate. Factories that employ at least twenty employees should have a safety and health
committee in which the employer and employees are represented. Though most of the provisions in this Act
are not applicable in an educational building, nevertheless, some of the provisions of the Act are pertinent,
for instance, the sections dealing with the issues of occupational health and safety as follows:
Health
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
Drainage of floors- floors should be made of material that allows good drainage
Cleanliness- dirt and refuse should be removed frequently
Overcrowding- every worker should have at least 350 cubic feet in a work room
Design- the workroom should not be less than 9 feet in height
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v.
vi.
vii.
Safety
i.
Precaution against falls- floors and ladders must be soundly constructed and properly maintained
and handrails provided for stairs
ii.
The contents of any room in which persons are employed shall be arranged or disposed that
there is free passageway for all people employed in the room to a means of escape in case of fire.
iii.
Warning of falling debris should be put and protection ensured. This includes warning of slippery
floor where it is applicable.
The proponent is aware of this Act and shall take necessary measure in accordance with the Law.
The Public Health Act (Cap 242):
Health and hygiene are particularly important where communities congregate for a shared resource such as
water. Section 116 requires Local Authorities to take all lawful, necessary and reasonably practicable measures
to maintain their jurisdiction clean and sanitary to prevent occurrence of nuisance or condition liable for
injurious or dangerous to human health. Part IX
Section 115 of the Act states that no person/institution shall cause nuisance or condition liable to be
injurious or dangerous to human health. Such nuisance or conditions are defined under Section 118. Any
noxious matter or waste water flowing or discharged from any premises into a public street or into the
gutter or side channel or water house, irrigation channel or bed not approved for discharge is also deemed as
a nuisance. The proponent shall adhere to the provisions of this Act.
Penal Code Cap 63
The above law prohibits the fouling of water, air and the emission of offensive noise and smell as follows:
Section 191 states that Any person who voluntarily corrupts or fouls water of any public spring or reservoir
so as to render it less fit for the purpose which it is ordinarily used, is guilty of a misdemeanor. The
proponent proposes to adhere to the law as set by this provision. The proponent hence recognizes the
provision as provided under the polluter pays principle and will take all necessary steps to adhere to the
said legal provisions.
The Forest Act, 2005:
This Act creates a new semiautonomous body, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and supportive
institutions for management and conservation of all types of forests. This Act mandates the KFS to
conserve and manage all forests. It also sets out the roles and responsibilities of communities in managing
forests. KFS is also responsible for formulating policies regarding the management, conservation and use of
all types of forest areas in the country. The Act embraces the concept of participatory forest
management and gives particular consideration to formation of forest community associations
(CFAs), which are recognized as partners in management. It enables members of forest communities
to enter into partnership with KFS through registered CFAs. It also allows ease arrangements by
interested groups to supplement Government efforts in plantation forest. With regards to ASDSP, the act is
important in the engagement and participation of CFAs in participatory management of forests, and
allowing the communities to accrue tangible economic benefits from conservation activities.
The Water Act, 2002:
This Act provides for the management and developments, conservation, use and control of water
resources and for the acquisition and regulation of rights to use water, to provide for the regulation and
management of water supply and sewerage services. The Act provides for increased and deliberate focus
on the two key sub-sectors: Water Resources Management (WRM) and Water and Sanitation Services
East Africa Exploration Ltd.
Prepared by Ecolife Consultium Ltd.
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(WSS). The Water Act commenced by virtue of Legal Notice No. 31 of 18 th March 2003 and Legal Notice No.
158 of 29th August 2003 provided for a reformed legal/institutional framework for the management
and development of Kenya's water resources and the provision of water services.
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(c) not subject to winding up by a court pursuant to the Companies Act; or,
(d) not in liquidation.
Other important parts of the Bill are 39 (1) and (2), 40 (1), (2), (3) and 41 (1), (2) which provide for dealing
with land under mining and environmental protection of mining areas. The proponent shall be guided by the
legal framework on mining.
2.2: Multilateral Environmental Agreements
Kenya has ratified various international conventions that deal with the protection of the environment
that may be directly or indirectly applicable to activities under the exploratory drilling. These are as
follows: International Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) of 1992, which promotes the protection of
ecosystems and natural habitats, respects the traditional lifestyles of indigenous communities, and
promotes the sustainable use of resources. The drilling project shall limit damage to nature and shall
respect the indigenous communities livelihoods and lifestyles.
World Heritage Convention (1972), Kenya is also party to this convention which is concerned
with cultural and natural heritage. The convention deals with monuments and areas that are deemed
to be of outstanding universal value in terms of beauty, science and/or conservation. Kenya has
several sites that have been declared World Heritage Sites. Any deterioration or disappearance of
such heritage is a loss to all the nations of the world. The importance of wetlands and water
birds are also covered under the Ramsar Convention of 1971, which governs wetlands of
international importance. The convention entered into force in Kenya in 1990 and Kenya is
therefore committed to avoid degradation of wetlands under its jurisdiction. There no World Heritage
sites in the drilling area. However the proponent shall not interfere with local vegetation outside the
rig and base camp areas.
Agreement of the Conservation of Eurasian Migratory Water Birds (2001) and the African
Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (1968)- Kenya ratified this
convention which seeks to protect migratory water birds and also conservation of nature and natural
resources. It therefore important ensures that the proponent recognizes and safeguards nature and
natural resources.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wildlife Fauna and Flora
(CITES) 1973, which prohibits trade in endangered species and products such as Ivory and
rhino horn. The proponent shall ensure the project staff are notified of this convention and do not
violate it.
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The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCDD): Kenya is also a signatory to this
treaty which aims to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought through national
action programs that incorporate long -term strategies supported by international cooperation
and partnership arrangements. The Convention, the only convention stemming from a direct
recommendation of the Rio Conference's Agenda 21, was adopted in Paris on 17 June 1994
and entered into force in December 1996. It is the first and only internationally legally binding
framework set up to address the problem of desertification. The drilling project will take place in
semi-arid lands which are susceptible to desertification. The proponent shall therefore avoid any
destruction of vegetation and soil compaction in areas not required for drilling.
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3.0:
Site Selection
Drilling Activities
Well Testing
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will be elevated from the existing ground level with minimal clearance of existing ground vegetation. The
loose top soil will be removed by using mechanical means and retained at a nearby area for later use during
site restoration. Leveling and compaction will also be done. Local earth and rubble will be used as the fill
material. Subsequently, the proposed well site and campsite will be duly fenced using chain link and barbed
wire.
A specially designed pit using an impervious liner will be provided as part of the site development for
disposal of drilling waste in the form of spent drilling mud and cuttings. In addition to that, a cuttings pit of
28m X 24m for disposal of drill cuttings
and two waste pits approximately 17m X
12m for disposal of drilling mud and rig
water will be provided.
A Campsite of size 200 x 200m, elevated
to the height as that of the drilling site,
will be set up close to the well site. Local
earth and rubble will be used as the fill
material. Proper surface gradients and
brick masonry drains will take care of the
run-off water, whereas separate septic
tanks and soak pits will be provided
within the staff camp for disposal of
domestic wastewater.
The transport of the Rig including
auxiliary equipment and camp facilities
to the site are expected to be delivered in
truck loads. The rig and related
equipment will be brought directly to
site, spares, mud preparing chemicals
and other materials will be stored at a
warehouse facility within the site. The rig
equipment will be transported directly to
the drilling site during mobilization and
will be de-mobilized directly from the
site.
Figure 4 Parts of Drilling Rig and a photo showing a Rig
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Drilling of wells requires specially formulated mud which basically comprises inert earth materials like
Bentonite, with several additives to give mud weight, fluidity and filter cake characteristics while drilling. The
drilling muds have several functions including lubrication and cooling of the drilling bits balancing subsurface
formation, bringing out the drill cuttings from the well bore, thixotrophic property to hold cuttings during
non-operations, formation of thin cake to prevent liquid along well bore. Several additives are mixed into the
mud system to give the required properties. Only water based drilling mud will be used. The quantity of
wastewater produced is estimated to be about 15 m3/day. The constituents of water based mud (WBM) are
given in Table 1.
Table 1: Ingredient of Water Based Drilling Fluid
Sr. No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
Chemicals
Barite
Bentonite
Carboxy Methyl Cellulose
Mud Thinner/Conditioner
Resinated Lignite
Non-Weighted Spotting Fluid
Sr. No.
7
8
9
10
11
12
Chemicals
Weighted Spotting Fluid
EP Lube
Drilling Detergent
Caustic Soda
Potassium Chloride
Soda Ash
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NZ
An electrical type rig is likely to be used at the proposed Konton Area in Block 1. A summary of details of the
proposed drilling activities are given as follows (Table 2 and 3):
Table 2: Sample technical details of the proposed drilling activity
Well Location
Drilling Fluid
Quantity of Cuttings (unit Cu.m)
Quantity of drilling waste
Development plan in the event of strike
Test flaring
Table 3: Details of drilling rig(s) to be deployed
Type of Rig
Drilling mud composition
Diesel consumption
Manpower of Rig
Details of solid handling system on rig
Well depth
Konton Area
Approx. 3,000 m
Water based mud
200-300 cu.m/day
1,000 cu.m
To be defined after hydrocarbon find
2 to 3 days(depending on findings)
Electrical Rig
Water based drilling fluid
20m3/day
30-40 personnel on rotational shifts 12hrs/day
Shale Shakers, Desander, Desilter
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NZ
the suction tanks to be re-pumped into the well. The drilling mud/fluid circulation is thus a continuous cyclic
operation. A sketch of the drilling mud circulatory system is shown in Fig. 3. The most suitable clay for mud
preparation is Bentonite which is a capable of forming highly dispersed colloidal solutions. Various other
chemicals are also used in mud preparation as per requirements dictated by the temperature/pressure
conditions of the wells. The mud is continuously tested for its density, viscosity, yield point, water loss, pH
value etc. to ensure that the drilling operations can be sustained without any down hole complications.
3.2.4.3: Blow Out Preventors (BOPs)
In addition to careful monitoring and control of the fluid system and installation of casing in each section of the well, a
blow-out preventer stack (or BOP) consisting of a series of individual preventers will be installed on the wellhead after
the top hole sections have been drilled.
The function of the BOP is to prevent uncontrolled flow from the well by positively closing in the well-bore, if flow
from the well-bore is detected. The BOP is made up of a series of hydraulically operated rams and can be operated in
an emergency from the drill rig. The BOP will be rated for pressures well in excess of those expected to be encountered
in the well(s). During drilling operations small amounts of BOP fluid are typically discharged every two weeks, during
testing of the BOP.
3.2.5: Mud System and Cuttings
The Mud System will comprise of water based mud (drilling fluid) which will be pumped through the drill string down
to the drilling bit and returns between the drill pipe casing annulus up to surface back into the circulation system
after separation of drill cuttings /solids through solids control equipment (Refer to Fig 4). Drilling fluid is important to
the operation of drilling rig, as it performs the following functions:
1. Control the down hole pressure;
2. Lift soil/rock cuttings from the bottom of the borehole and carry them to a settling pit;
3. Allow cuttings to drop out in the mud pit so that they are not re-circulated (influenced by mud thickness, flow
rate in the settling pits and shape/size of the pits);
4. Prevent cuttings from rapidly settling while another length of drill pipe is being added (if cuttings drop too fast,
they can build up on top of the bit and seize it in the hole);
5. Create a film of small particles on the borehole wall to prevent caving and to ensure that the upward flowing
stream of drilling fluid does not erode the adjacent formation;
6. Seal the borehole wall to reduce fluid loss (minimizing volumes of drilling fluid is especially important in dry areas
where water must be carried from far away);
7. Cool and clean the drill bit; and
8. Lubricate the bit, bearings, mud pump and drill pipe.
The environment-friendly water-based mud system will be used for the exploratory well(s). Unlike an oil-based mud
system, the use of water-based mud will not pose higher risk of contamination to subsurface formations, furthermore
the disposal of the fluid and the cuttings will be less problematic. In the likelihood of borehole instability problems it
may be necessary to introduce a base salt, such as Potassium Sulphate (K 2SO4) into the system. Base salt additions will
only be considered after all accessed freshwater aquifers have been securely cased and cemented off.
The mud used during the operation will flush out formation cuttings from the well hole. These cuttings will be
separated from the drilling mud using a solids-control and waste management package. This will comprise a stepped
system of processes consisting of linear motion vibrating screens called shakers and centrifuges to mechanically
separate cuttings from the mud fluid. The mud from the hole is first screened in the shakers through a mud flow line
which separates 100 micron size of cuttings. Solids up-to 2microns in size are separated in a centrifuge. The mud is
then collected in mud tanks (Refer to Fig 7). Both the cuttings from the shale shakers and centrifuge are collected in a
solid discharge pit and then removed to a specially designed pit lined (with an impermeable liner). This cuttings pit has
a certain slope to drain off water in the adjacent waste pit. This pit after being filled up shall be covered with an
impermeable liner over which a thick layer of native top-soil with proper top slope will be provided.
Once the cuttings have been separated, the drilling fluid (WBM) will be reused or processed after further treatment in
a chemically enhanced dewatering (CED) system designed to remove suspended solids that are too fine for mechanical
East Africa Exploration Ltd.
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separation in the solids control package. The CED system comprises a chemical mixing and dosing unit and decanting
centrifuges.
The drilling and wash waste water will be confined to a lined waste pit and then disposed into the closest natural drain
after adequate treatment complying with the notified standards for disposal. Dilution in case of marginal excess of
standards can be ensured prior to disposal conforming to regulatory requirements.
The whole process by which the drilling fluid will be reused during the drilling operation is commonly known
as a closed loop system. This system is ideal for drilling operations in those areas, where water availability
is comparatively less as it cuts down the total water consumption for the formulation of drilling mud and
also saves the consumption of chemicals. The drilling fluid circulation system will be considered to enable the
drilling fluid to be recycled and maintained in good condition throughout the operation. Figure 7 shows the
schematic layout of drilling mud & solids discharge involved as a part of the drilling system for exploratory
wells.
The mud chemicals will be added to the mud system to adjust the mud properties and to ensure the
following functions:
Fluid Loss Control: A thin cake of cohesive mud on the wall of the well bore retards passage of liquid
into the surrounding rock formation. Bentonite as well as naturally occurring additives such as starch
and cellulose are used.
Lost Circulation: Naturally occurring fibrous, filamentous, granular or flake materials are used to stop
lost circulation when the drill bit enters a porous or fractured formation.
Lubricity: Normally the drilling fluid is sufficient to lubricate and cool the bit. However, under extreme
loading, other lubricants are added to prevent the drill string from becoming stuck.
Shale Inhibition: Potassium assists in the hydration of shales which in turns prevent their sloughing
into the well bore. This potassium ion is normally introduced to the mud via potassium chloride (KCl).
In this well, to minimize any impact on the environment, Potassium Sulphate (K2SO4) will be used.
pH Control: Caustic and lime are used to control the alkalinity of the fluid to a pH of 9 to 10. This
ensures the optimum performance of the polymers in the fluid and controls bacterial activity.
Pressure Control: Barite is generally used as a weighting agent to control down hole pressure.
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Cementing: Cementing is a necessary aspect of exploratory drilling of oil and gas wells. Cement is used to
fulfill the following works:
Secure/support casing strings
Isolate zones for production purposes
Cementing generally utilizes cement with various additives in small quantities as accelerators/retarders,
density adjusters, dispersants, fluid loss additives, and anti gas migration additives.
3.2.6: Well Casing
As the hole is drilled, casing is placed in the well to stabilize the hole
and prevent caving. The casing also isolates water-bearing and
hydrocarbon bearing zones. As shown in Figure 8 three or four
separate casing strings lengths of tubing of a given diameter may be
used in intermediate-depths wells. In locations where surface soils
may cave in during drilling, a conductor casing may be placed at the
surface, extending only twenty to one hundred feet from the surface.
This string is often placed before the drilling starts with a pile driver
(Berger and Anderson, 1992). The next string, or surface casing,
begins at the surface and may penetrate two thousand to three
thousand feet deep. Its primary purpose is to protect any surrounding
freshwater aquifer(s) from incursion of oil. The intermediate string
begins at the surface and ends within a couple thousand feet of the
bottom of the well bore. This section prevents the hole from caving in
and facilitates the movement of equipment used in the hole, e.g. drill
strings and logging tools.
The final production string extends the full length of the wellbore and
encases the downhole production equipment. Shallow wells may have
only two casing strings, and deeper wells may have multiple
intermediate casings. After each casing string has been installed,
cement is forced out through the bottom of the casing up the Figure 8: Example of casing strings
annulus to hold it in place and surface casing is cemented to the surface. Casing is cemented to prevent
migration of fluids behind the casing and to prevent communication of higher pressure productive
formations with lower pressure non-productive formations.
Casing is important for both drilling and production phases of operation, and must therefore be designed
properly because:1.
It prevents natural gas, oil, and /or any other substances from leaking out into any surrounding
freshwater aquifer(s),
2. It limits sediments from entering the wellbore, and
3. It facilitates the movement of equipment up and down the hole.
Several considerations are involved in planning the casing. First, the bottom of the wellbore must be large
enough to accommodate any pumping equipment that may be needed either upon commencement of
pumping, or in the later years of production; should commercially viable hydrocarbons be found in the
wellbore. Also, unusually pressurized zones will require thicker casing in that intermediate area. Any casing
strings that must fit within this string must be smaller, but must still accommodate the downhole equipment.
Finally, the driller is encouraged to keep the size of the hole to a minimum because as size increases, so does
cost and waste.
East Africa Exploration Ltd.
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
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NZ
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NZ
4.0:
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pupils of which 35,928 are boys and 23,137 are girls. The primary school retention and transition rates
are 51 percent and 58 per cent respectively. There are 34 secondary schools with 5,122 boys against 2,073
girls. The completion and retention rates are 90 per cent and 87 percent. Moreover, there are four
youth polytechnics (Wajir, Habaswein, and Griftu polytechnics) and one tertiary institution. Adult literacy is
low at 23.6 per cent.
The main types of livestock are cattle (mostly Borana type and dairy crosses), sheep, goats (dominantly
Totenberg goats), camels and donkeys. Poultry keeping is more pronounced in Wajir Town. According to the
2009 population and housing census, there were 794, 552 cattle, 1,406,883 sheep, 1,866,226 goats, 115,503
donkeys and 533,651 camels. The production of milk and meat is estimated at 3,875,940 litres and 191,100
Kgs per year respectively.
The main source of water is the seasonal Ewaso Nyiro River. Other sources of water include boreholes,
shallow wells, pans and dams all used for human and livestock consumption. Lake Yahud, which is an
underground and permanent lake, situated on the periphery of Wajir town provides water for wildlife and
quarry activities although the water is saline and not safe for drinking. There are 14,360 shallow wells,
206 water pans and 98 bore holes. The major users of water are livestock at 53% and domestic use at
30%. There are 80 public health facilities, 27 private facilities and 2 facilities run by NGO/missions.
The county has 10 level IV hospitals, 26 level III health centers, 46 level II health centers, 46 dispensaries and
24 clinics. According to the 2005/2006 KIHBS, 95.9 per cent of the population has to cover more
than 5 Km to access a health facility and only 4.1 per cent access a health facility within less than 1Km.
The HIV prevalence rate is 0.9 per cent which is lower than the national one at 6.7 per cent.
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The Mandera-Lugh Basin is a sub-basin on the western flank of the much larger and extensive Ogaden Basin,
shown in Figure 12, and 14 surface geology and the main structural stratification. The map also shows the
main geology consisting of Cretaceous, Tertiary and the Jurassic geological basins. The basin as a whole,
stretching from northeast southwest was formed during the Carboniferous to Triassic times with
continental rift infill of the Karoo Group, followed by a phase of intra-cratonic Post-Rift sag and passive infill
through the whole region during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
The whole region experienced regional uplift during Oligo-Miocene times and has high probability of
hydrocarbon deposits based on its geological history. Evidence of such a possibility is oil and gas deposits find
elsewhere in the Ogaden and Sudan and possibly in Ethiopia which share the same geological history.
The similarity between the stratigraphy of the Mandera and Ogaden basins is shown on the Figure 12. The
Permian and Triassic continental sections of the Karoo Group have been penetrated by wells in the Ogaden
basin and also by stratigraphic test wells Elgal-1 and Elgal-2 to the south of block 01. They are over mature in
these latter wells, but the Permo-Triassic Bokh shales and Elgal shales are very likely the equivalent lacustrine
source facies of the same age within the Karoo Group throughout East Africa. Other potential source rock
and reservoir rock units have been penetrated in the Ogaden and field mapping in block 01 has shown that
similar facies are present in the area. Therefore, an overall understanding of the Ogaden basin petroleum
system provides the analogue for the Mandera-Lugh Basin.
4.9: Block 1 Hydrocarbons Prospects
There is a close relationship between hydrocarbons potential and the occurrence of such ancient sedimentary
basins mentioned earlier, which have the potential for good source rocks. In addition to the presence of good
mature source rocks, the occurrence of hydrocarbons reserves depends also on the timely evolution of good
reservoir rocks, and traps. Sandstones and carbonates are good reservoir rocks while shale horizons generate
good traps.
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Several, potentially very large structural leads have been identified on previous interpretation of the sparse
seismic and mapping of the main reservoir intervals. These leads, defined on only 2-3 lines at most are
potentially very large up to 200 square kilometers in the case of Golberobe. The Khorrof lead in the south
and the Sengif lead in the north are the only other identified leads at present.
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Figure 17: Scrubland vegetation dominated by scattered acacia shrubs and isolated bushes.
4.10.2: Wildlife
The area was once rich in wildlife but due habitat loss, competition with livestock and hunting, the wildlife
has become rare. However, occasionally, one can spot giraffes, gazelles, antelopes though these species are
now very rare. The test drilling work will therefore not affect local wildlife as they have since been displaced.
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Division
2008
2010
2012
Total
Total
Total
Central
46,133
43,647
89,781
51,528
47,730
99,258
55,732
51,625
107,358
Tarbaj
21,641
18,438
40,079
24,172
20,163
44,335
26,144
21,808
47,952
Wajir-Bor
16,599
13,429
30,028
18,540
14,685
33,225
20,053
15,883
35,936
Kutulo
21,929
18,605
40,535
24,493
20,346
44,839
26,492
22,006
48,498
Total
106,302
94,120
200,42
2
118,733
111,323
239,744
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Division
Area km2
Central
Tarbaj
Wajir-bor
Kotulo
Total
2673
5382
4163
2253
14471
2008
Pop
89781
40079
30028
40535
200422
2010
Density
33
7
7
18
14
Pop
99258
44335
33225
44839
221656
Density
37
8
8
20
15
2012
Pop
107358
47952
35936
48498
239744
Density
40
9
8
22
17
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5.0:
5.1: Findings
Drilling operations produce localised impacts whose which are felt within a localised area where the drilling is actually
done. However, the impacts on the environment should therefore be analysed mostly based on the activities of the
operation machinery, crew and support staff within the area of congregation (base camp). The area where the base
camp will be established is not a sensitive environment. The area is a semi arid environment with scattered bushes
hence low vegetation displacement is expected. It is also far from urban settlements where most of the local
communities are settled in the Wajir Township.
The following section discusses some of the potential impacts on the environment and proposed mitigation measures.
They include impacts on:
Biological environment
Pedo-lithosphere environment (soil)
Physical environment
Human and social environment
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Mitigation
Restrict clearing operation to the operation area mostly the rig site and base camp. Machine and personnel
operations should be restricted to operation areas only. The proponent should ensure no oil spillage within
the operation zone and, in case of accidental spillage, such oil should be neutralized.
Significant rating: Low
5.2.4: Waste management mitigation measures
The base camp is expected to have approximately 300 personnel including security personnel. Wastes
generated will be both solid waste and liquid effluent. All liquid effluent should be managed as follows:
Liquid effluent
A high capacity septic tank should be constructed that can effectively handle effluent for more than 300
persons. A soak pit should also be constructed for grey water from cooking sinks, laundry and other related
facilities. All storm water should be directed through designed channels to the environment.
Solid waste
All solid waste generated from several sources in the Base Camp for instance, food packaging, cans, paper,
bottles and scrap should be segregated. The non-biodegradable waste is expected to be low. These should be
burned in a designated pit. Cans and plastic bottles should be delivered to recyclers
All biodegradable waste should be put in a designated composting pit and covered with soil for easier
decomposition.
Significant rating: Low
5.2.5: Biomedical waste
It is expected there will be biomedical waste generated from the proposed medical clinic to be set up at the base camp.
Biomedical waste from the clinic should be safely stored in leak proof containers, ferried and deposed off as per
hazardous waste guidelines with most of it being incinerated.
Significant rating: Medium
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Mitigation
Table 6: Mitigation Measures for Potential Impacts on the Physical Environment
ACITIVITY
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
MITIGATION MEASURES
Drilling
and Base
Camp
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
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6.0:
Road safety
MITIGATION
Sensitize field staff on local norms and culture which they should respect
including local communitys socio-cultural and religious values
The operation personnel shall understand the communities way of life and
ethics.
Minimize personnel contacts with the community to avoid possible cultural
friction.
Ensure drilling activities and the Base Camp has their independent water source
such as borehole so that they do not compete with community for water
resources.
Ensure the rig site and the Base camp is fenced off and the gate is securely
manned to prevent unauthorized persons and livestock
The proponent to invest in community development projects in line with the
company's philosophy.
The proponent to consult the local community in identification of the projects
in respect of their most felt needs
Where possible ensure employment for none technical staff jobs comes from
the local community and is done with local consultation
Create a secure and safe environment for people and assets within the
operation area and ensure compliance to the occupational health and safety
Act 2007.
Commit to engage the local community in constant consultation before and
during the drilling
Ensure there are communication channels for feedback from the community.
This can be done in a structured way through creation of a liaison committee
drawing representatives from each location within the operation area and the
proponent.
This committee shall be responsible for conflict resolution together with the
local administration.
This committee shall be the channel through which the community members
shall submit their concerns to the proponent.
46
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
6.2: Evaluation
Most of the predicted social negative impacts are considered to be low in scale. However, they need to be
addressed in order to ensure a successful operation of the proposed exploration drilling and to guarantee
community cooperation and good relationship with the communities. On the other hand the positive
benefits are substantive.
Figure 18: Consultative meeting with County Level Key Stakeholders in Wajir (left) and Local Stakeholders in Khorof (Right)
47
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
7.0:
A
B
C
D
E
Rating
1
No risk
Low risk unlikely to
occur
Medium low risk possibility of rare
occurrence
Medium high risk
possibility of isolated
incidents
High risk - possibility of
repeated incidents
Environmental Impact
No or minor environmental
impact
Significance Rating
Severity
Significance Rating
Probability
Category
Severity
Definition
Rating
Severity
No or minor
environmental impact
Slight environmental
impact
Moderate environmental
impact
Serious environmental
impact
Disastrous environmental
impact
Public Disruption
None
Minor
Moderate environmental
impact
Small Community
Serious environmental
impact
Moderate Community
Disastrous environmental
impact
Large Community
48
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
1.
Risk
Ranking
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCE
Rating
EVENT/
INCIDENT/
IMPACT
Medium
low
medium
high
Medium
low
Medium
low
High
Severity
ACTIVITY
DRILLING OPERATIONS
Site
preparation
Drilling
Vegetation
cleared, soil
compaction,
soil erosion,
dust, noise
Hole drilling
Disturbance, fatigue,
high possibility of
accidents
2.
3.
4.
1.
2.
BASE CAMP
Camp layout
Base Camp
development
Camp
Activities
Noise / Light
Resource
Conflicts
social cultural
Water source
for drilling
and camp
1.
Oil spills,
plastics and
other nonbiodegradable
s
Ensure oil spills are neutralised. All nonbiodegradable should be incinerated or ferried to
waste management sites outside the Camp.
Low
Organic
waste
Attract scavengers,
carnivores and
livestock to site.
Medium
low
49
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
MITIGATION MEASURES
Risk
Ranking
POTENTIAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCE
Rating
EVENT/
INCIDENT/
IMPACT
Severity
ACTIVITY
Biomedical
waste
disposal
Waste Types:
(sharps,
pathological,
infectious,
Pharmaceutic
al
Genotoxic ,
Chemical )
Pollute environment
- water and soil
Pollution due to
improper handling,
treatment, and
disposal of
biomedical waste.
No segregation of
waste
Low
High
Medium
High
Medium
High
Interference
with grazing
land due to
operation
activities,
pasture
conflicts as
area may be
restricted
from grazing.
Temporary reduction
in grazing land,
security tension
between drilling
team and pastoralists
activities likely to be
localised and short
term.
Potential for
theft and
attacks by
criminal
/terror
entities
within the
area.
Temporary
operational risk for
drilling team
members in the
drilling area or
interference with
drilling activities
likely to be localised
and short term.
SECURITY
Physical
Presence of
drilling team
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ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
Vegetation
Desertification
Pollution
Soil
Wildlife
CHARACTER
Soil
compaction,
erosion and
pasture loss
Waste
accumulation
and oil
spillage
EXTENT
OF
IMPACT
IMPACT
PERIOD
OUTCOME
EVALUATION
SIGNIFICANCE
CERTAINTY
Minimal
10 years
Minimal
Low
High
Minimal
Entire
operation
period
Minimal
Low
High
Compaction
Reduced rain
infiltration
Minimal
Entire period
of operation
Minimal
Low
High
Disruption
Habitat loss
Minimal
Entire period
of operation
Minimal
Low
High
Noise
Hearing
impairment
Minimal
Entire period
of operation
minimal
Low
High
Nuisance to
pastoralists
during grazing
Disruption
medium
Entire period
of operation
Medium
Medium
Low
Cultural
interference
Culture
erosion
Low
Entire period
of operation
Low
Low
Low
-Presence at
Base Camp
Pastureland
disruption
Medium
Entire period
of operation
Medium
Low
High
Waste
accumulation
Reduced
water and
pasture
quality
Minimal
Project Period
Minimal
Low
Low
Biomedical
waste disposal
Reduced
water quality
Minimal
Project Period
Minimal
Low
Low
Humans
Water Quality
51
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
PHASE OF
WORKS
ASPECT OR
IMPACT
IDENTIFIED
IMPACT
DESCRIPTION
DIRECT /
INDIRECT
NEGATIVE
IMPACT
RATING
SEVERITY
RATING
SIGNIFICAN
CE FACTOR
Use of drilling
rig
Noise
Disturbance
Direct
Fence of the
operation site
Direct
Fence of the
operation site
Hearing problems
Direct
Direct
Accidents
Respiratory
problems
Bruises, death
Direct
Bush clearing
Soil erosion
Soil erosion
Indirect
Waste
accumulation
Pollution of
environment
Accumulation of
solid waste at Base
camp if poorly
managed
Direct
Base Camp
Change of
scenic
aesthetics
Change of scenic
aesthetics
Direct
Segregate waste,
compost organic
waste, incinerate
biomedical waste,
deliver recyclable
waste to recyclers,
reduce waste and
repair equipment.
Blend the base
camp with the local
environment
Machinery
operations
Climate
change
Climate change
indirect
Establishment
of camp &
Operations
Security
Security
Direct
Conflicts with
locals
Conflicts with
locals
Direct
Dust
MITIGATION
Use of machinery
when only essential,
use well serviced
machinery
Ensure adequate
security preparation
by security firm and
local govt admin
Employ local labour
where possible,
have conflict
committee in place
Use of drilling
rig produces
noise and dust
NATURE OF
IMPACTS
MITIGATION MEASURES
RESPONSIBIL
ITY
MONITORING
MEANS
MONITORING
FREQUENCY
BUDGET
Bush clearing
soil erosion,
lose of
valuable tree
species
Dust
Contractor
proponent to
issue checklist
on dos and
donts
Onset of site
preparation
part initial
costs
Contractor
Physical
observation by
supervisor
Throughout
operation
Part of
management
costs
Disturbance
to pastoralists
Contractor
and
proponent
liaison officer
Throughout
operation
Part of initial
operation
costs
Scare off
livestock &
wildlife
Contractor
and
proponent
liaison officer
Throughout
operation
Part of initial
operation
costs
52
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
POTENTIAL
SOURCE OF
IMPACTS/ISSUE
NATURE OF
IMPACTS
RESPONSIBIL
ITY
MONITORING
MEANS
MONITORING
FREQUENCY
Contractor
and
proponent
Observation and
inspection
Throughout
operation
Part of initial
operation
costs
Disruption of
pastoralist
activities
Contractor
Throughout
operation
Part of initial
operation
costs
Dust
Contractor
Observation
Throughout
operation
Base Camp
Change of
site aesthetics
Contractor
Observation
Initial setting
up
Part of initial
operation
costs
Part of initial
operation
costs
Waste
accumulation
from Rig & Base
Camp
Pollution of
environment
Contractor
Observation
Throughout
operation
Part of initial
operation
cost
Contractor
Close
supervision
Inception
phase
Part of initial
operation
cost
Contractor
Close
supervision
Throughout
operation
Contractor
Close
supervision
Throughout
operation
Part of initial
operation
cost
Part of initial
operation
cost
Insecurity
Proponent
Be vigilant
Throughout
operation
Conflicts of
communities
for
employment
Contractor
Be vigilant
Throughout
operation
Proponent
Evaluation of
progress thro
reporting
Operation and
demobilization
phase
MITIGATION MEASURES
Dust
Vibration
caused by
drilling rig
Machinery
Machinery
operations
Climate
change
SECURITY
Monitoring and
Evaluation
Progress
monitoring
53
BUDGET
Part of initial
operation
cost
Part of initial
operation
cost
Part of initial
operation
cost
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
8.0:
MONITORING GUIDELINES
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
Any other event that can cause significant environmental damage to the local or environment; or,
Operation outside activities within the approved Environment Plans.
EAX will give notice, orally or in writing, of a reportable incident to the Designated Authority, including all
material details of the incident that are reasonably available to the operator as soon as practicable, but within
24 hours, after:
the first occurrence of the incident; or
upon the detection of the incident by the operator if the incident is not detected by the operator at the
time of its first occurrence.
8.3.2: Security
Due to the proximity of the Somali border to the proposed exploration drilling site, there are operational
security risks for drilling team members in the area which may lead to interference with the drilling activities.
It is important for Afren-EAX should undertake the following precautionary measures to ensure the test
drilling team conduct the drilling with minimal security risk:
Hire security support institution.
Liaise with local administration and Government security agencies for support on security issues.
Practice avoidance of key areas of high insecurity where practicable.
Consultation with local administration, Government security and local community during planning phase.
Liaison and communication process has been established with Local Administration.
55
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
REFERENCES
Ecolife Consultium Ltd, 2010: Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed
Exploratory 2D
Seismic Exploration in Block 1 Wajir and Mandera Regions
Ecolife Consultium Ltd, 2008: Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed 2D
Seismic Oil Exploration
in Block L17/L18
Ecolife Consultium Ltd, 2009: Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed 3D
Seismic Oil Exploration
in Block L8
Kenya gazette supplement Acts 2000, Environmental Management and Coordination Act
Number 8 of 1999. Government printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, Building Code 2000 by Government Printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, Land Planning Act (Cap. 303) Government Printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, Local Authority Act (Cap. 265) Government Printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007 Government Printer,
Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, Penal Code Act (Cap.63) Government Printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, Physical Planning Act, 1999 Government Printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, Public Health Act (Cap. 242) Government Printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, The Factories and Other Places of Work Act, (CAP 514)
Government Printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement Acts, Water Act, 2002 Government Printer, Nairobi
Kenya gazette supplement number 56, Environmental Impact Assessment and Audit
Regulations 2003. Government Printer, Nairobi
Population and Housing Census 2009: Kenya Bureau of statistics, Government Printer, Nairobi,
Kenya
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) (1998): Eastern Africa Atlas of Resources;
Kenya.
Wajir County Integrated Development Plan: First County Integrated Plan 2013-2017: Republic of
Kenya
Wamukoya G.M, Ludeki J.V. and Wamae T.M. (2007): Environmental Legislation in Kenya
56
ESIA for Proposed Oil & Gas Exploration Drilling Activities in Block 1
NZ
ANNEXES
Forum Minutes
57