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Kenya could begin commercial oil production in Turkana before the end of 2026, according to Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who says preparations are underway to finally bring the long-delayed project into operation.
Speaking on Radio Jambo on Friday, Wandayi expressed confidence that the country is nearing a major milestone in its energy sector, noting that oil extraction is expected to commence before the year closes.
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He said the government is putting in place the necessary measures to ensure the project stays on schedule and maintained that current progress points to production starting within the targeted timeline.
The remarks signal renewed optimism from the government regarding a project that has experienced repeated delays despite the discovery of commercially viable oil deposits in Turkana more than a decade ago.
Wandayi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to harnessing the resource for national development, saying the benefits of oil production should extend beyond Turkana and contribute to the broader economy.
However, he acknowledged that Kenya currently lacks a refinery capable of processing crude oil from the Turkana fields. While plans for a refinery have been discussed in the past, none has been established so far.
The Energy CS said the government remains hopeful that a regional refinery will eventually be built to support industrial growth and meet future energy demands.
Until then, crude oil extracted from Turkana will be exported for processing abroad, a move expected to generate revenue and foreign exchange earnings for the country.
According to Wandayi, proceeds from the oil sector are intended to benefit all Kenyans, while also unlocking economic opportunities in Turkana through infrastructure development, job creation and increased government revenues.
If production begins as planned, Kenya will join the list of oil-producing nations, opening a new chapter in the country’s energy and economic landscape.
Wandayi’s comments come shortly after President William Ruto reiterated plans to establish a regional oil refinery in collaboration with Aliko Dangote.
During the annual National Prayer Breakfast, Ruto disclosed that discussions with Dangote on the refinery project were ongoing. He insisted the initiative would proceed despite opposition from some quarters, describing it as a strategic investment aimed at improving regional energy security and reducing dependence on imported petroleum products.
