By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 8 December 2025 - The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is negotiating a safety partnership with the Siaya County Government aimed at curbing recurring petroleum-related tragedies in the region.
EPRA Deputy Director for Public Education and Advocacy, Ann Kiprotich, said the regulator wants structured zoning and planning for fuel tankers, LPG plants, and petrol stations to reduce risks to residents.
Siaya has recorded serious incidents in areas such as Sibindi and Malanga, including explosions involving unlicensed facilities operating within residential zones.
Ms Kiprotich said EPRA’s collaboration with counties will focus on preventing such disasters through stricter compliance checks, improved siting of facilities, and environmental safety measures implemented jointly with NEMA.
She noted that recent audits found fuel adulteration and diversion of transit petroleum products into local stations along the Kisumu–Busia highway.
EPRA has mapped five counties for a pilot programme to create designated parking spaces for fuel tankers and enhance disaster preparedness for LPG and electricity-related incidents.
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Beginning Tuesday, EPRA will hold consultations with national government administration officers led by Siaya County Commissioner Norbat Komora to gather intelligence on fuel siphoning, illegal diversions and unlawful electricity connections.
A sensitisation workshop will also build the administrators’ capacity beyond fuel price compliance, which Kiprotich described as only a fraction of EPRA’s mandate.
On Wednesday, EPRA will engage county enforcement teams, trade officials and fire departments on issues ranging from licensing and calibration of pumps to emergency response for petrol and LPG fires.
County Secretary Joseph Ogutu welcomed the partnership, citing new land acquired in Sega—and soon Ugunja—for safe tanker parking.
Energy Chief Officer Nicholas Kut Ochog urged a review of taxes linked to street lighting as part of broader sector reforms.
