KENYAN GOVERNMENT LIMES UP 10 OIL EXPLORATION BLOCKS FOR AUCTION

Kenya is preparing to put 10 oil and gas exploration blocks up for auction this September, marking its first licensing round since introducing a new petroleum law six years ago. Principal Secretary for Petroleum, Mohamed Liban, on Monday, September 1, said Kenya currently has 50 blocks across four sedimentary basins, with 10 now ready for exploration.
“We have 50 blocks in four sedimentary basins, of which 10 are ready for marketing,” Mohamed Liban said. “This offering represents a new era in petroleum exploration, aligning Kenya with global standards.” he said
According to Commissioner for Petroleum Joseph Otieno, the blocks on offer this month are in the Anza and Lamu basins. The offered blocks were selected based on geoscientific data to ensure a transparent allocation process, with the government providing detailed seismic surveys, geological reports, and well data.
The move follows Kenya’s decision in May to restructure petroleum exploration blocks by introducing flexible contracts and tax incentives. Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi stated that the reforms have enabled the identification of 10 highly prospective blocks, which will be made available in the country’s first licensing round, scheduled to launch by September 2025.
“This presents a unique opportunity for investors to explore Kenya’s hydrocarbon potential through a transparent and merit-based process,” Mr. Wandayi said.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam during the Eleventh East African Petroleum Conference and Exhibition 2025 (EAPCE 2025), the CS emphasized that the targeted blocks in the Lamu and Anza basins are strategically located in regions with proven discoveries and untapped potential.
He encouraged investors to utilize the resources for deeper insights into the country’s petroleum prospects. The CS further highlighted that Kenya is investing heavily in infrastructure to support oil and gas exploration. Key projects include the expansion of Lamu Port under the LAPSSET Corridor Program, the improvement of road networks to facilitate logistics, and the proposed Lamu-Lokichar pipeline, which is expected to ensure efficient transportation of petroleum products.
“These projects are designed to enhance Kenya’s competitiveness as a regional energy hub,” Wandayi said.