The government has officially revoked the status of Kenya Pipeline Company PLC as a state entity following the successful completion of its privatisation process through an Initial Public Offering on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
In a gazette notice dated April 22, 2026, the Privatisation Authority Acting CEO Jane Rose Omondi confirmed that the State had divested a majority stake in the company, effectively reducing its ownership to a minority position.
“In excercise of the powers conferred by section 4 (1) of the Public Finance Management Act, as read with regulation 211 (7) of the Public Finance Management (National Government) Regulations, the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury revokes the declaration of Kenya Pipeline Company as a National Government Entity as declared under Schedule II of the Declaration of the National Government Entities,” the notice read in part.
The government further confirmed that the privatisation process had been fully concluded in line with the law.
“Pursuant to section 53 of the Privatisation Act, 2025, it is notified for the general information of the public that the privatisation of Kenya Pipeline Company Limited (now known as Kenya Pipeline Company PLC) has been finalised,” the notice stated.
Under the IPO, 65 per cent of the company’s shares were sold to Kenyan citizens and institutional investors through the Nairobi Securities Exchange, while the National Treasury retained 35 per cent ownership.
The development marks a significant transition for the company, which has been wholly owned by the government since its establishment in 1973.
It also reflects a broader policy shift towards reducing state control in commercial enterprises and increasing private sector participation in strategic industries.
The listing is expected to improve corporate governance, enhance operational efficiency, and broaden public participation in one of Kenya’s most critical petroleum transport firms.
Despite relinquishing majority control, the government will continue to hold a significant minority stake, allowing it to retain influence in the company’s strategic direction while benefiting from private sector investment and market-driven management.
