Following Kenya Pipeline Company’s launch of the historic Initial Public Offering (IPO), here’s how you can buy shares, being offered at Sh9 each.
The fully digital e-IPO was opened on January 19 and closes on February 19, 2026 with minimum shares one can buy capped at 100.
Step 1- Get a CDS Account (Required Before You Apply)
Before you apply for IPO shares, you must have a Central Depository System (CDS) account- this is like an electronic bank account- without it you cannot buy or hold shares.
How to Open a CDS Account
Contact a licensed stockbroker or investment bank to help you open a CDS account
National ID, KRA PIN, and contact details required.
Once opened you’ll receive your CDS account number which you will use for the IPO application.
Without a valid CDS account, your IPO application will be rejected.
Step 2- Apply for KPC Shares
The IPO is fully digital, and you can apply either through the simplest USSD code (on phone) or the online portal.
Method A- Buying Via USSD & M-Pesa (Easy & Mobile)
Using a Kenyan mobile number that is registered in your name, dial: 483816#
Select “Read Terms & Conditions” and accept.
Choose “New Application”.
Enter your CDS account number when prompted.
Enter the number of shares you want to buy (minimum 100).
When asked to pay, confirm payment via M-Pesa (ensure you have sufficient balance).
You’ll receive an SMS confirmation once the application + payment is successful.
That’s how to apply and pay for KPC shares straight from your phone.
What Next?
If the IPO is oversubscribed, shares will be allocated pro rata and any extra funds will be refunded.
Successful shares will be credited to your CDS account before listing.
Method B- Buying Via the Online IPO Portal
Visit the official KPC IPO portal
Log in or register (if needed).
Enter your CDS account number.
Select the number of shares you want.
Choose your payment method- you can pay by M-Pesa, bank transfer, or other methods supported on the portal.
Submit and confirm payment.
You should receive a confirmation SMS or email.
Application is only valid after successful payment.
After Application…
After the IPO closes on February 19, 2026, shares will be allocated and credited to your CDS account.
The shares are expected to start trading on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) on March 9, 2026 where you can hold, sell, or buy more shares.
