Kenya’s energy sector has seen significant growth over the years, with gas being one of the fastest-growing sources of energy in the country.
The demand for gas has been on the rise due to its affordability, convenience, and reliability compared to other sources of energy.
As a result, gas companies have been established to meet the growing demand, with some of the companies being owned by Kenyan billionaires.
In this article, we will focus on some of the tycoons who own gas companies in Kenya.
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Mohammed Jaffer
Jaffer is the founder of MJ Group, Africa’s largest provider of cargo handling services at the port of Mombasa.
In 2017, Jaffer started Pro-Gas, which has become a market leader in the Kenyan gas market due to its affordability and availability.
Pro-Gas is sold under Proto Energy Limited, which is owned by Africa Gas and Oil (AGOL), another company owned by Jaffer.
With a vast empire worth an estimated $1 billion, Jaffer’s gas company has contributed to his success in the energy sector.
Ahmed Hashi
Ahmed Hashi is another billionaire who owns a gas company in Kenya. Hashi Energy Limited, previously known as Hashi Empex Limited, is a petroleum empire worth over $50 million.
Hashi started as a kerosene distributor for Chevron Kenya and later ventured into the gas business through the Hashi gas brand.
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The company has been in the Kenyan market for over three decades, and it has established itself as a significant player in the gas industry.
Peter Macharia Kariuki
Peter Macharia Kariuki is the owner of the Jamii Gas brand, which supplies gas to various parts of Kenya from its base in Nairobi.
Kariuki’s gas company has gained a significant market share due to its reliability and affordability. Though not as prominent as other billionaires who own gas companies in Kenya, Kariuki’s success in the gas industry has contributed to his wealth.
President William Ruto
President William Ruto is another Kenyan billionaire who owns a gas company.
According to documents tabled in parliament by Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, Ruto owns Kitengela Gas, a company that was allocated six police officers to provide round-the-clock security.
The company’s success has contributed to Ruto’s wealth, though he is better known for his political career.
Raila Odinga
In December 2021, Raila revealed that he sold a German car he once owned to raise Sh 12,000, which he used to start the East Africa Spectre.
The gas cylinder manufacturing plant claims to be the top producer and verifier of LPG cylinders in East and Central Africa and is valued at over Sh500 million.
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In summary, the gas industry in Kenya has attracted significant investment from local billionaires, contributing to the growth of the country’s energy sector.
The demand for gas has been on the rise due to its affordability and convenience, leading to the establishment of several gas companies.
