The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has released its financial year 2026 report, listing the top oil marketing companies operating in Kenya. According to the report, Vivo Energy Kenya led all competitors with a 19.70% market share in local sales of imported petroleum products. The report revealed the dominance of three major players at the top of the sector. EPRA confirmed that 154 oil marketing companies were registered as of June 2026.
The total number of registered oil marketing companies in Kenya rose to 154 in June 2026, up from 146 the previous year. These companies market Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Illuminating Kerosene (IK), and Jet A-1 fuel. EPRA's report highlighted the significant concentration of petroleum distribution in Kenya among a handful of large operators. The regulator stated that the companies play a crucial role in the country's energy sector.
Vivo Energy Kenya Limited topped the rankings with a local sales volume of 1.25 million cubic metres, commanding a 19.70% share of the market. TotalEnergies Marketing Kenya Plc came in second with 894,087.51 cubic metres, representing a 14.12% share. Rubis Energy Kenya Plc followed closely in third position with 888,772.62 cubic metres and a 14.04% share. The top three companies' combined market share stood at approximately 47.86%.
The remaining seven companies in the top ten each held market shares below 4%. Ola Energy Kenya Limited ranked fourth with 225,266.00 cubic metres (3.56%), followed by Hass Petroleum Kenya Limited with 217,584.55 cubic metres (3.44%). Galana Energies Limited occupied the sixth spot with 212,011.74 cubic metres and a 3.35% share.
Be Energy Limited ranked seventh at 196,713.12 cubic metres (3.11%), while Stabex International Ltd placed eighth with 179,577.07 cubic metres (2.84%). Vitalac International Limited and Petro Oil Kenya Limited rounded out the top ten, with volumes of 152,337.04 cubic metres (2.41%) and 151,611.00 cubic metres (2.39%) respectively.
In related news, EPRA has outlined requirements for obtaining a petroleum road transport business licence in Kenya. The requirements include application fees and permits required for tankers and drivers. Transporters' gross earnings depend on the regulated margin, fuel volume, and route distance. A 30,000-litre load on a 200 km route could generate about KSh 115,680 before operating costs.
The growth in registered oil marketing companies is seen as a positive development for Kenya's energy sector. However, the dominance of a few large players raises questions about market competition. EPRA's report provides valuable insights into the country's petroleum industry, highlighting trends and opportunities for growth. The regulator's efforts to monitor and regulate the sector are crucial in ensuring a stable and efficient energy market.
Key points
- Vivo Energy Kenya Limited leads the top 10 largest petroleum companies in Kenya with a 19.70% market share.
- The top three companies - Vivo Energy Kenya, TotalEnergies Marketing Kenya, and Rubis Energy Kenya - have a combined market share of approximately 47.86%.
- The number of registered oil marketing companies in Kenya increased to 154 in June 2026, up from 146 the previous year.
