The government has intensified preparations for the proposed Eastern Africa Oil Refinery, with consultations underway across ministries, departments and agencies to lay the legal, regulatory and administrative groundwork for the multibillion-shilling project.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said the discussions are aimed at ensuring the refinery is developed on a sound policy and governance framework while bringing together all key stakeholders before implementation begins.
“Preparatory measures for the proposed Eastern Africa Oil Refinery are progressing through coordinated deliberations across government ministries, departments and agencies to ensure every legal, regulatory and administrative requirement is adequately addressed,” Kindiki said.
Government agencies align implementation plans
Speaking after chairing a high-level meeting at Harambee House Annex in Nairobi on Tuesday, Kindiki said the government is harmonising institutional efforts to accelerate the project’s implementation while ensuring compliance with all statutory requirements.
He noted that the meeting reviewed progress made so far and identified priority actions that need to be undertaken in the coming weeks.
“We reviewed the legal, regulatory and administrative measures undertaken so far and agreed on the next steps required to move the project forward in an efficient, transparent and coordinated manner,” Kindiki said.
The meeting brought together relevant Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and heads of government agencies involved in the project.
Stakeholder engagement to begin
Kindiki said the government is preparing for extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure all interested parties participate in shaping the project before implementation begins.
He noted that consultations with affected communities, investors, development partners and other stakeholders will be central to the refinery’s development.
“Meaningful stakeholder engagement will be a critical component of this project because inclusive consultations help build consensus and ensure the refinery delivers maximum value to the region,” he said.
Boost for regional energy security
According to Kindiki, the proposed Eastern Africa Oil Refinery is expected to strengthen regional energy security by expanding refining capacity while supporting industrial growth across Eastern Africa.
He said the project has the potential to reduce reliance on imported refined petroleum products, enhance value addition and create new investment opportunities within the region.
“The proposed refinery represents an important strategic investment that will strengthen regional energy resilience, promote industrialisation and create employment opportunities for our people,” Kindiki said.
Supporting economic transformation
The Deputy President said the refinery forms part of the government’s broader agenda to accelerate infrastructure development and position Kenya as a regional hub for energy, manufacturing and trade.
He added that coordinated planning among government institutions will be key to delivering the project successfully.
“Our commitment is to ensure this project is implemented within a strong legal and institutional framework that promotes efficiency, accountability and long-term economic transformation,” Kindiki said.
He reiterated that the government will continue working closely with all relevant ministries, agencies and stakeholders as preparations for the proposed Eastern Africa Oil Refinery progress.
