Background
A legacy of powering Kenya's growth.
The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has a rich history spanning nearly five decades. From its establishment in 1976 to its current structure under Executive Order No. 2 of November 2023, the Ministry has continuously evolved to meet Kenya's growing energy demands and development aspirations.
Today, the Ministry stands as a testament to Kenya's commitment to sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy and petroleum services for all citizens.
Evolution of the Ministry
Key milestones in the transformation of Kenya's energy and petroleum governance.
Ministry of Energy Established
The Ministry of Energy was established to oversee and coordinate energy matters in Kenya, marking the beginning of formal energy sector governance.
Renamed to Ministry of Energy and Petroleum
During the reorganization of Government, the Ministry of Energy was renamed the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, comprising two State Departments: the State Department for Petroleum and the State Department for Energy, dealing with petroleum and energy matters respectively.
State Department for Petroleum Merged with Mining
The State Department for Petroleum was merged with the Ministry of Mining to form the Ministry of Petroleum and Mining, while energy matters continued under the Ministry of Energy.
Re-unification under Executive Order No. 2
In the reorganization of government vide Executive Order No. 2, the State Department for Petroleum was merged with the Ministry of Energy to form the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum with two State Departments namely: the State Department for Energy and the State Department for Petroleum.
Executive Order No. 1 / 2025
The Ministry continues to operate under renewed mandate, driving sustainable energy security, expanding clean energy access, and developing petroleum resources responsibly for all Kenyans.
Current Ministry Organization
Under Executive Order No. 2 of November 2023, the Ministry comprises two State Departments delivering Kenya's energy mandate.
State Department for Energy
Driving generation, transmission, renewable energy development, rural electrification, and energy efficiency programmes across Kenya.
State Department for Petroleum
Overseeing exploration, refining, storage, distribution of petroleum products, and promotion of clean cooking solutions.
Serving Kenya's Energy Future
From 1976 to today, our commitment to powering Kenya's growth remains unwavering.
Learn More About Our Mandate