Kenya's National Framework to Enhance the Response Capability to Oil Spills

Abstract

Investment in the oil and gas sector in the East Africa region should commingle with the incorporation of best practices in oil spill emergency response. Upstream, Midstream, and Downstream operations must focus on prevention of emergencies but always be prepared to implement response actions if all engineering and safety defenses fail. Elements of environmental stewardship, applied scientific research, and technology are among key considerations needed in contingency planning to mitigate the socioeconomic and ecological consequences of hydrocarbon releases. Kenya is in the process of realizing its oil and gas potential. The country has started injection and production testing of its oil reserves in Turkana and has initiated oil export through the Port of Mombasa. These activities, coupled with increased rate of sea borne trade and planned relocation of Kipevu Oil Terminal to an offshore platform, places the country at risk of oil spills and therefore the need to have a robust system of spill prevention, preparedness and response. The World Bank's International Development Assistance (IDA) recognized the relevance of enhancing preparedness and response capability and, through the Kenya Ministry of Petroleum and Mining, initiated the development of the national framework for onshore and offshore oil prevention, preparedness, and response capacity in Kenya. The project is divided into four phases (Identification, Development, Implementation, and Kenya's Regional (East Africa) Response Capacity Enhancement) and four primary deliverables: National Oil Spill Contingency Plan for Marine and Navigable WatersOnshore National Oil Spill Contingency PlanNational Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique (SCAT) Guidance ManualNational Oiled Wildlife Response and Preparedness Guidance Manual This paper provides an overview of the four phases, describes the approach used to meet the project objectives, and provides an overview of the national oil spill contingency plans and national guidance manuals.