Gulf Energy Secures KSh 1.9 Billion Rig as Turkana Oil Project Targets December First Oil

Energy firm Gulf Energy Limited, through its exploration subsidiary Gulf Energy E&P BV, has secured the GW70 onshore drilling rig from Great Wall Drilling Company in a deal valued at approximately KSh 1.94 billion. The rig, currently stationed in Abu Dhabi, is expected to arrive in Mombasa by March, with drilling activities scheduled to commence in July. The move signals a significant step forward in the development of the South Lokichar Basin oil project in Turkana County. The project is targeting first oil production by December 2026, marking a major milestone for Kenya’s long-awaited entry into commercial oil production. Estimated recoverable reserves stand at approximately 326 million barrels, with total projected investment reaching US$6.1 billion over a 25-year lifecycle. The Turkana oil project has faced delays over the years due to infrastructure, financing, and operational challenges. However, renewed drilling activity and capital commitment indicate fresh momentum toward unlocking Kenya’s hydrocarbon potential. Beyond energy production, the project is expected to stimulate local employment, infrastructure development, and service sector growth in Turkana and surrounding regions. The long-term investment outlook also highlights Kenya’s continued push to diversify its energy mix and expand domestic resource utilisation. If timelines are achieved, December 2026 could mark a historic turning point in Kenya’s upstream petroleum industry. Why This Matters Positions Kenya closer to achieving commercial oil production Signals renewed investor confidence in the Turkana oil project Unlocks long-term infrastructure and economic opportunities in northern Kenya Opportunity Sector Oil & Gas, Energy Infrastructure, Engineering Services, Logistics & Transport Follow @MotoSeenAfrica for more updates on business, trade, investments, opportunities and economic growth across Africa. Moto Seen Africa — Africa’s View, Seen Clearly. #GulfEnergy #TurkanaOil #SouthLokichar #OilAndGas #EnergyInvestment #KenyaEnergy #InfrastructureDevelopment #FirstOil