Tullow Oil has officially exited Kenya after completing the sale of its entire working interest in the country to Auron Energy E&P Limited, an affiliate of Gulf Energy Ltd.

The deal, first announced in July 2025, saw Tullow sell 100 per cent of its shares in Tullow Kenya BV for a minimum of US$120 million, with an initial US$40 million already received.

The company retains rights to future royalties and a no-cost back-in option for 30 per cent participation in later development phases.

“After 14 years in Kenya, Tullow leaves behind strong assets, and we are delighted to pass the baton to Gulf Energy, a capable Kenyan company, in the lead up to first oil,” said Tullow Kenya BV Managing Director Madhan Srinivasan.

Tullow also thanked the Government of Kenya, EPRA, and the County Government of Turkana for their support since 2011.

For Gulf Energy, the acquisition marks a historic opportunity. “This project will play a crucial role in advancing Kenya’s domestic energy sector, creating opportunities for growth in Turkana, and supporting the country’s long-term energy security,” said Gulf Energy CEO Paul Limoh.

Tullow CEO Ian Perks framed the exit as a strategic win for the company: “The successful completion of this transaction marks a significant milestone and strengthens our balance sheet. We wish the people and Government of Kenya, and Gulf Energy, every success as they advance this project.”

With Gulf Energy now at the helm, hopes are high that Kenya could finally join the ranks of oil-producing nations, with Turkana at the center of the journey.