Kenyans to Benefit as EPRA Plans New Oil Rules by December to Boost Investments
The regulator confirmed that by December, Kenya will have new legislation guiding investments in the upstream oil sector.
EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo assured Kenyans that the rules would be in place before the year ends.
“We target that God willing, we should be able to have concluded the regulations by November, latest by December,” Kiptoo said.
Preparing for Oil Commercialisation
These rules come as the country awaits a review of the revised Field Development Plan for the South Lokichar Basin.
Kiptoo explained that the new framework will ensure Kenyans do not lose out when production begins.
“The regulations are meant to make sure Kenya benefits from its oil resources while protecting local communities and the environment,” he stated.
Seven Key Regulations Underway
EPRA has already drafted seven regulations. They cover local content, petroleum management, cost controls, safety, land access, and pipeline operations.
Public participation forums are ongoing, with Kenyans giving their views in different regions.
The rules are expected to attract serious investors and prevent exploitation of communities living near oil fields.
Clear Goals for the Future
Kiptoo said the framework is designed to deliver four main goals: fair business practices, safety and quality, sustainability, and stronger data for policy-making.
With these in place, Kenya can finally move from discovery to production.
At the same time, the government has gazetted 50 oil and gas blocks spread across several basins — Lamu, Mandera, Tertiary Rift, and Anza. These blocks are now open for exploration.
Infrastructure and Big Investments Ahead
Kenya is also betting big on infrastructure. Plans are underway for a pipeline stretching 824 to 892 kilometres from Turkana to the Port of Lamu.
This mega project will allow the country to export crude oil directly.
Meanwhile, Tullow Oil recently confirmed plans to exit Kenya. The company agreed to sell its entire Kenyan portfolio to Gulf Energy Limited in a Sh15.5 billion deal.
The government has extended approval for the Turkana Field Development Plan to December 31, 2025, giving Gulf Energy time to prepare fresh investments.
Why It Matters to Kenyans
For many citizens, these developments bring hope. Oil wealth could finally translate into jobs, development, and better livelihoods.
But questions remain — will the government deliver on time, or will Kenyans continue waiting another decade?
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Kenyans to Benefit as EPRA Plans New Oil Rules by December to Boost Investments
