Ruto announces January listing of Kenya pipeline shares on NSE, invites Kenyans to invest

President William Ruto has confirmed that the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) will be listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) this January, offering Kenyans and investors a chance to own a stake in one of the country’s most strategic and profitable state corporations.

Speaking at an event in West Pokot, President Ruto described the move as part of his administration’s broader plan to unlock value from public assets, deepen the country’s capital markets, and ensure ordinary citizens directly benefit from Kenya’s economic growth.

“We have said the shares will be sold to everyone. Even if you have Sh200 or Sh300, come and buy, so that when profits are announced, you are part of it. You take your share and use it to grow your business,” he said.

KPC is central to the transportation and storage of petroleum products in Kenya and the wider East African region, making it a critical asset in the energy sector.

The listing follows the government’s earlier pledge to partially privatise KPC through a stock market offering.

President Ruto has previously highlighted that selling shares in selected state-owned enterprises will help raise capital, improve efficiency, and reduce reliance on public borrowing.

KPC was identified as ideal for listing due to its strong financial performance and consistent profitability.

Treasury officials, led by Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, have explained that funds raised from the listing will support KPC’s expansion plans, including regional infrastructure projects and diversification into energy-related services.

The listing will also allow both local and international investors, including East African partners such as Uganda, to participate, boosting regional collaboration in strategic energy infrastructure.

While shares will be offered to the public, the government will retain a significant stake to protect national interests.

Once listed, investors can trade KPC shares on the NSE through licensed stockbrokers, and may benefit from dividends and capital gains.

The move is expected to revive activity at the NSE by introducing a large, high-value company, signaling renewed confidence in Kenya’s capital markets and offering ordinary Kenyans an opportunity to invest in national development.