Kenya, Uganda to Jointly Own KPC After Privatisation, Says Ruto
NAIROBI / KAMPALA: Kenya and Uganda will jointly hold shares in the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) after its privatisation, President William Ruto has announced.
Speaking on Sunday during an investment tour in Uganda, Ruto said the government will list KPC shares on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, allowing Uganda to invest as part of a regional partnership.
He reassured the public, saying the move follows recently ratified cooperation frameworks from a joint ministerial meeting in Nairobi last week. Both countries agreed to jointly own KPC, which the government had previously planned to privatise fully.
“I want to thank you, Mr President, for agreeing to work with us. The ministers were in Nairobi last week, and I have given guidance on joint ownership of KPC by Kenya and Uganda,” Ruto said.
Kenya to Divest 65% Stake
Ruto added that Kenya will sell a significant portion of its stake, with 65 per cent of shares up for grabs. Uganda has confirmed it will co-invest in the strategic facility.
“KPC is not just a Kenyan facility but a regional one. Uganda will co-invest with us,” Ruto said.
He encouraged Ugandans and other East Africans to buy shares during the public listing, noting that wider participation will diversify earnings and strengthen shared ownership of strategic assets.
Regional Infrastructure Projects
Ruto also revealed that Kenya and Uganda are co-investing in a pipeline extension from Eldoret through Kampala to the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The project will improve regional fuel transport.
Additionally, the President announced plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Kampala, further enhancing cross-border infrastructure.
“In January, we will launch the SGR extension from Naivasha to Kampala and connect it to the Malaba-Kampala line. This will improve transport, logistics, and regional integration,” Ruto said.
On Museveni’s Comments
The announcement follows Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s remarks on territorial and maritime access, which sparked debate. Museveni warned that landlocked East African nations face challenges exporting goods without guaranteed sea access.
Ruto affirmed that both governments remain committed to cooperation. He blamed some media outlets for misrepresenting Museveni’s statements.
“There is no wrongdoing in the comments. They aimed to promote regional connectivity and integration,” he said.
KPC Privatisation Timeline
The government will complete KPC privatisation through an Initial Public Offering (IPO) by March 31, 2026. Kenya will sell 65 per cent of shares and retain 35 per cent. Parliament approved the divestment process in October 2025.
