A 2,152-tonne onshore drilling rig worth about $2 billion (Ksh.259 billion) has arrived at the Port of Mombasa.
The equipment, shipped from Abu Dhabi, is expected to support the transition of the South Lokichar oil fields in Turkana County from exploration to full-scale commercial oil production.
From exploration to production
Kenya’s Lokichar oil project is expected to move into the production phase, with first oil targeted by December 2026. The drilling equipment will support the development of the oil fields as operators prepare for commercial extraction.
Africa Oil, Tullow Oil and TotalEnergies are advancing the project, with the government targeting the development of Kenya’s petroleum resources and the associated infrastructure needed to transport crude to market.
The arrival of the rig comes as Kenya continues preparations for the Lamu–Lokichar oil pipeline and export infrastructure, which is expected to provide a route for crude from Turkana to the coast.
Mombasa’s strategic role
The Kenya Ports Authority says the port is positioning itself to handle more specialised and oversized cargo as Kenya expands its energy, infrastructure and extractive industries.
The regional infrastructure plans include the LAPSSET Corridor, linking the Port of Lamu with northern Kenya and neighbouring countries. The corridor is expected to strengthen regional trade and create additional logistics opportunities around energy projects.
Meanwhile, plans for the $15 billion Lamu refinery project are expected to further increase demand for energy-related logistics and infrastructure in the region.
For Mombasa, the arrival of such a large specialised consignment reinforces the port’s importance as a gateway for major energy and infrastructure investments in Kenya and the wider region.