Kenya Overhauls Oil Exploration Blocks To Match Global Standards

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya

 

Kenya has revamped its petroleum exploration blocks to align with international standards and best practices, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary, Opiyo Wandayi has announced.

 

Speaking at the East African Petroleum Conference and Exhibition 2025 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Wandayi said the restructuring process identified ten highly promising blocks.

 

These blocks, chosen based on extensive geoscientific research, will be included in Kenya’s inaugural licensing round set to be launched by September 2025.

 

According to the CS, the move is aimed at creating a transparent and competitive process that will attract investors looking to tap into Kenya’s oil and gas potential.

 

The targeted blocks are strategically located in the Lamu and Anza basins areas with proven petroleum deposits and significant untapped reserves.

 

Wandayi revealed that Kenya has compiled detailed geoscientific data, including seismic studies, geological assessments, and well reports, all of which are accessible at the National Data Centre under the National Oil Corporation of Kenya.

 

He encouraged investors to utilize this information to better understand the country’s energy potential.

 

To support exploration and production, the government is also investing in infrastructure, including the expansion of Lamu Port as part of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport Corridor Program and improving road networks for better logistics.

 

Additionally, the Lamu-Lokichar pipeline project is expected to streamline petroleum transportation, enhancing Kenya’s position as a regional energy hub.

 

Wandayi emphasized that the country is also prioritizing the development of a skilled workforce in the petroleum industry.

 

Universities and technical institutions are offering specialized training in petroleum engineering, geology, and geophysics to build local expertise and foster innovation in the sector.

 

Assuring investors of a stable business environment, the CS highlighted Kenya’s investor-friendly legal framework and flexible Production Sharing Contract terms.

 

He reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector while ensuring a transparent and merit-based investment process.