The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA)’s top seat is up for grabs as the regulator begins the search for a new Director General, months after Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria left the position.
EPRA advertised the vacancy on Tuesday, August 18, inviting qualified Kenyans to apply for the position. The recruitment comes after the authority appointed Dr Joseph Oketch as acting Director General following Kiptoo’s resignation in April.
The new boss will take charge of an institution with a major influence on the daily lives of Kenyans. EPRA regulates the electricity, petroleum and renewable energy sectors, with its work covering areas such as fuel supply, electricity regulation, licensing, safety standards and consumer protection.
According to the vacancy notice, EPRA is seeking a Kenyan citizen with a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university in a field such as engineering, physical sciences, law, finance, economics, environmental studies, or energy.
Applicants must also have at least 7 years of senior management experience, including at least 2 years in the petroleum and energy sector. They must have relevant professional qualifications and membership of a recognised professional body in good standing.
EPRA said the successful candidate will be expected to provide strategic leadership and direction while ensuring the authority delivers on its mandate.
The Director General will oversee the regulation of electricity generation, transmission, distribution and supply. The office will also supervise petroleum activities, including importation, refining, transportation, storage and sale of petroleum products.
The role further covers renewable energy and upstream petroleum operations, making the position one of the most important offices in Kenya’s energy sector.
A new chapter after Kiptoo’s exit
The recruitment follows Kiptoo’s resignation on April 4, 2026, during investigations into allegations surrounding fuel imports and the manipulation of information on petroleum stocks.
Kiptoo left office alongside former Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban and former Kenya Pipeline Company Managing Director Joe Sang as investigations into the petroleum supply chain intensified. The allegations included claims that fuel stock data had been manipulated, creating the impression of a shortage and contributing to emergency fuel procurement.
The controversy also involved a fuel consignment worth more than Ksh 4 billion, with questions raised about its procurement and whether the imported fuel met the required standards. The allegations remain subject to investigation.
Following Kiptoo’s departure, EPRA appointed Oketch as acting Director General. Oketch previously headed the authority’s Electricity and Renewable Energy Directorate and has more than 25 years of experience in the energy sector.
The permanent appointment will therefore come at an important moment for EPRA. The incoming Director General will be expected to keep the regulator running while strengthening oversight and public confidence in the management of Kenya’s energy markets.
The contract will run for three years and may be renewed once for a similar period, subject to satisfactory performance and the mandatory retirement age. Applications close on September 9, 2026, at 5 pm.
Leave a comment