Nakukulas residents are seeking a clear benefit-sharing framework as Halal Mining Company Limited proposes chromite prospecting in Turkana East.
Community members want jobs, business opportunities, schools and health facilities to form part of the benefits from any future mineral development.
Turkana County says an environmental and social impact assessment and land restoration plans must precede drilling to protect grazing fields and water points.
Residents of Nakukulas Village have called for a clear benefit-sharing framework as Halal Mining Company Limited explores the possibility of prospecting for chromite ore in the area.
The community raised its expectations during a public engagement forum held on October 28, 2026, bringing together residents, company representatives and officials from the national and county governments.
Led by Turkana County Deputy Director of Mining Elim Areman, the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the proposed prospecting activities, environmental safeguards and potential economic opportunities for local people.
Community representative Joseph Erumu welcomed the proposed investment but said residents wanted tangible benefits, including schools, health facilities, employment and business opportunities.
His remarks highlighted the community’s interest in ensuring that any mineral development translates into improvements in local livelihoods and services.
Areman emphasised the importance of open communication between investors, government institutions and host communities, saying meaningful public participation was essential to responsible exploration.
“As a county, we are keen on creating a conducive environment for mineral exploration while ensuring host communities benefit directly and are protected from any harmful impacts. Public participation is a critical part of community entry,” he said.
He added that the county would require the company to undertake an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and present land restoration plans before any drilling or excavation.
The proposed safeguards are intended to protect grazing fields and water points, which were identified as important considerations during the discussions.
Representing Halal Mining Company Limited, Samuel Njuguna said the company would follow the required procedures and keep residents informed throughout the process.
“The choice of Nakukulas was guided by the State-led nationwide airborne survey of 2023 which flagged Turkana as a county with potential nickel-copper-chromite mineralisation. We are here to share that information and seek community consent,” Njuguna said.
The company’s interest remains at the proposed prospecting stage. The forum discussed the area’s mineral potential rather than a confirmed commercially viable deposit.
Chromite is the principal commercial source of chromium, which is used in stainless steel production, specialised alloys, refractory materials and chrome plating.
For residents, the discussions centred on how exploration could proceed transparently while protecting community resources and creating opportunities for local participation.
The county government said the engagement reflected its commitment to responsible mineral development through collaboration between investors and host communities.
Officials attending the forum included State Department for Mining inspectors Josephat Yego, Wallet Kiptui and Christopher Odhiambo, Turkana East Sub-County Administrator Robinson Kotol and Chief Sarah Ekomwa.