Chapter 106: Lake Turkana
As the end of the year approached, the East African colony had become more organized and efficient in its operations. The experience gained over the past two years allowed for smoother immigration efforts, with established procedures in place.
While the southern part of Kenya had already been occupied, the northern region remained unexplored. The Northwest region was temporarily inaccessible due to ongoing local epidemics.
Northern Kenya presented different natural conditions compared to the south, characterized by lower precipitation and a mix of desert and grassland. However, the East African colonies were adaptable, with some areas receiving enough rainfall to support drought-resistant crops or livestock.
The local climate was influenced by topography and ocean currents, with the northeast being the driest due to the effects of terrain and prevailing winds. In contrast, the southwestern plateau and the Great Lakes region enjoyed abundant precipitation.
Henriette, accompanied by his expedition team, embarked on a survey of the northwest region, reaching Lake Turkana, which shared its boundary between Kenya and Ethiopia. Lake Turkana was the fourth largest lake in Africa and stood out due to its emerald green color, set against the backdrop of surrounding desert and grasslands.
As the team continued northward along the lake's shores, they realized the lake extended far beyond their initial view, potentially rivaling the size of the three major East African lakes.
The team decided to press on, believing that this journey could lead to significant discoveries. They documented the lake's ecological, climate, and hydrological characteristics along the way.
Lake Turkana was known as "Turkana Lake" to the local indigenous people, known for its alkaline water and blue-green color. It supported various wildlife, including Nile crocodiles, hippos, fish, and a wide array of bird species.
On the seventh day of their journey, Henriette and his team reached the northern tip of Lake Turkana, where they encountered the Omo River, the lake's primary water source. The Omo River originated in Ethiopia and provided 90% of Lake Turkana's water, maintaining its water levels even in the arid surroundings.
The lower reaches of the Omo River were fertile and could support a significant population. The team recorded detailed information about the hydrology and geography in this region.
Recognizing the potential of the lower Omo River as a key development area for northern Kenya, the East African colonies considered it part of their territory. The safety of the Omo River and Lake Turkana would be a priority in the years to come.
Ethiopia's history of reducing water flow to the downstream areas of the Omo River, causing conflicts and ecological damage, prompted the East African colonies to assert control over this critical region. Ethiopia's political instability and internal disputes provided an opportunity for the colonies to secure the Omo River Basin.
Theodorus II of the Abyssinian Empire's conflict with the British during this time was yet another factor shaping the region's future. The British were preparing to confront Theodorus II after he kidnapped a British diplomat and European hostages. This event would coincide with the East African colonies' expansion into the Omo River Basin.
With the death of Theodorus II and Ethiopia's internal struggles, the threat posed by the Abyssinian Empire to the East African colonies would be diminished for several years, allowing for further expansion.
This chapter concludes with the anticipation of significant developments in the region and the East African colonies' strategic planning for future growth.