President William Ruto has announced that the government will list shares of the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) in January, opening the firm to public ownership for the first time.

Speaking during an event in West Pokot, the President urged Kenyans to seize the opportunity to invest in one of the country’s most profitable state-owned enterprises, saying the move is aimed at broadening wealth creation and citizen participation in national development.

“We have said the shares will be sold to everyone. Even if you have Sh200 or Sh300, come and buy, so that when profits are announced, you are part of it. You take your share and use it to grow your business,” Ruto said.

He emphasised that the listing is intended to empower ordinary Kenyans by giving them a stake in a strategic national asset, allowing them to benefit directly from its profitability.

Kenya Pipeline Company plays a critical role in the transportation and storage of petroleum products across Kenya and the wider East African region, making it one of the most strategic firms in the energy sector.

The announcement follows earlier commitments by the government to partially privatise selected state-owned enterprises through the capital markets. Ruto has previously said the strategy is aimed at raising capital, improving efficiency, strengthening governance and reducing reliance on public borrowing.

KPC was identified as a prime candidate for listing due to its strong balance sheet and consistent profitability. The President has also said the move is expected to revitalise activity at the NSE by introducing a large, high-value listing capable of attracting both local and international investors.

“We want our capital markets to grow and become a strong engine for investment and job creation,” Ruto said in earlier remarks.

The President confirmed that the listing will be open to both domestic and foreign investors, including regional partners such as Uganda, allowing for broader participation in the company’s ownership.

Treasury officials, led by Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, have previously stated that funds raised from the listing will support KPC’s expansion plans, including regional infrastructure projects and diversification into related energy services. The listing is also expected to enhance transparency and corporate governance through public ownership.

The government has maintained that it will retain a significant stake in KPC to protect national interests, even as part of the company is offered to the public.

The planned KPC listing forms part of a wider privatisation and economic reform agenda aimed at boosting private-sector participation, strengthening public finances and expanding investment opportunities for Kenyans.

If completed as scheduled, the KPC share offer will rank among the most significant listings on the NSE in recent years, signalling renewed confidence in Kenya’s capital markets.