Kenya's first commercial crude oil production is moving closer as the GW70 drilling rig, valued at over Ksh2.59 billion (USD20 million), arrived at the Port of Mombasa on September 25.

• The first phase of crude oil production is targeted for December 2026.
• The key organization involved is Gulf Energy E&P BV SEZ, with its Chief Executive Officer Paul Limoh confirming the timeline.
• The rig will be transported to the South Lokichar Basin in Turkana County, where initial production aims for 20,000 barrels per day.

Over 150 households in Bonchari Constituency are set to receive electricity for the first time after six decades without power, following the launch of a last-mile connectivity project in Nyabioti village.

• Approximately 150 households will benefit from the initial phase of the project.
• The Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC) is implementing the project, with support from Kisii Woman Representative Dorice Aburi.
• The initiative aims to transform lives by improving education, security, and economic activities in the area, ending 60 years of reliance on alternative lighting.

Kenya is a significant step closer to commercial oil production with the arrival of a 1,500 horsepower drilling rig, the GW70, at the Port of Mombasa. This marks the beginning of preparations for Kenya's first commercial oil drilling in the South Lokichar Basin.

• Commercial drilling is scheduled to commence on November 1, with first oil production anticipated in December 2026.
• The rig was leased by Gulf Energy E&P BV and arrived aboard MV Transit Sedanka from Oman.
• The first phase of the project aims to produce approximately 20,000 barrels of crude oil daily.

President William Ruto is set to embark on a development tour of the Coast region starting Saturday, focusing on land issues and key infrastructure projects.

• President Ruto will issue approximately 200,000 title deeds across six counties: Taita-Taveta, Kwale, Kilifi, Mombasa, Tana River, and Lamu.
• The tour includes launching the construction of a $16 billion refinery in Lamu, a joint project with Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote.
• This initiative addresses longstanding land ownership challenges and aims to boost economic development, with the refinery expected to create over 500,000 jobs and enhance energy security.