Kisumu Oil Depot Set for Major Expansion Amid Surging Regional Demand

The Kisumu oil depot is poised for a significant upgrade as the government moves to boost fuel storage and distribution capacity in response to growing demand across the region.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi announced that the Kisumu Kenya Pipeline Corporation (KPC) depot will undergo a major expansion, including the construction of new storage tanks aimed at doubling its current capacity. The upgrade is expected to enhance fuel supply not only within Kenya but also to key markets in Uganda and Rwanda.

Since the Kisumu Oil Jetty became operational in December 2022, it has transported over 290 million liters of fuel to Entebbe, Uganda, easing road congestion and cutting maintenance costs along major transport routes.

Alongside the Kisumu expansion, the Eldoret KPC depot will also be upgraded to improve storage for super petrol and Jet A-1 fuel, further strengthening Kenya's fuel distribution network across Western Kenya and neighboring countries.

Additionally, the recently completed upgrade of the Nairobi–Eldoret pipeline—boosting its flow rate by 56%—will support increased supply to the Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret depots, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a regional petroleum hub.

These developments form part of the government’s broader strategy to position Kisumu as a critical energy and trade gateway for East Africa.