Energy

Along with Tanzania and Uganda, Kenya is emerging as a new destination for oil and gas explorers after several hydrocarbons deposits in commercially viable quantities were found in the East Africa region. The extent of Kenya’s oil and gas reserves is still being determined and estimates vary widely, but some government projections suggest that its reserves could exceed Uganda’s expected reserves by as much as three-fold and rank the country as one of Africa’s most resource-rich nations. The country is also developing its mining sector, which currently contributes less than 1% to GDP but has significant potential to grow. Kenya is working to review and improve its regulatory environment for natural resources. An appealing regulatory environment will help to convince the industry that Kenya is serious about promoting investment in extracting its natural resources. In addition, a commitment to infrastructure development by the authorities should also help to attract the necessary funding and expertise to the country.

This chapter contains interviews with Davis Chirchir, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Energy and Petroleum; and Martin Mbogo, Country Manager, Tullow Oil.