Key Insights
The East African oil and gas upstream market, encompassing exploration, development, and production activities, is poised for significant growth over the forecast period (2025-2033). Driven by substantial hydrocarbon reserves discovered in countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the market is projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 3.00%. This growth is further fueled by increasing government support for energy infrastructure development and investment from major international oil and gas companies such as Equinor ASA, ExxonMobil Corporation, and TotalEnergies SE, along with significant contributions from national oil companies like the National Oil Corporation of Kenya and PanAfrican Energy Tanzania Ltd. The onshore segment currently dominates the market due to established infrastructure and easier accessibility, but significant investment in offshore exploration suggests a potential shift in market share in the coming years. Challenges remain, including the complex regulatory environment in some regions, potential political instability impacting project timelines, and the need for substantial investments in infrastructure.
The regional distribution of market activity is concentrated in key countries including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan. South Africa, while possessing its own oil and gas industry, also plays a role through supporting services and infrastructure. The "Rest of Africa" segment encompasses smaller-scale operations and exploration activities in other East African nations. The market’s trajectory will be highly dependent on successful exploration efforts, the timely implementation of pipeline projects to facilitate transportation of oil and gas, and consistent government policies that encourage foreign investment and local capacity building. Over the forecast period, we anticipate a consistent increase in market value, driven by new discoveries and enhanced production capacity, alongside further advancements in exploration technologies specifically tailored for the East African context. The market's long-term success will hinge on balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability concerns.

East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This insightful report provides a comprehensive analysis of the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market, offering crucial data and forecasts for stakeholders from 2019 to 2033. The study covers market size, key players, industry trends, and future opportunities, providing a detailed understanding of this dynamic sector. With a base year of 2025 and a forecast period extending to 2033, this report is an invaluable resource for strategic decision-making. The analysis includes key segments (onshore and offshore) and prominent companies like Equinor ASA, Exxon Mobil Corporation, TotalEnergies SE, China National Petroleum Corporation, National Oil Corporation of Kenya, and PanAfrican Energy Tanzania Ltd. Expect in-depth coverage of recent major developments like the commissioning of Mozambique's first offshore project and the significant LNG development deal in Tanzania. This report quantifies the market in Millions (USD).
East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Composition & Trends
This section delves into the competitive landscape of the East African oil and gas upstream market, analyzing market concentration, innovation drivers, regulatory frameworks, substitute products, end-user profiles, and merger & acquisition (M&A) activity. We examine the market share distribution among key players, identifying dominant companies and assessing their strategic moves. M&A activity is analyzed, including deal values and their impact on market dynamics. Expected market concentration is xx% in 2025, with a projected increase/decrease to xx% by 2033. The regulatory landscape is analyzed for its impact on investment and exploration, considering potential changes and their implications. The influence of substitute energy sources, including renewable energy, and their impact on market share is also discussed. End-user profiles are examined, focusing on national oil companies, international oil companies, and independent producers.
- Market Share Distribution (2025): Equinor ASA (xx%), Exxon Mobil Corporation (xx%), TotalEnergies SE (xx%), CNPC (xx%), NOC of Kenya (xx%), PanAfrican Energy (xx%), Others (xx%).
- M&A Activity (2019-2024): Total deal value of approximately USD xx Million, with the largest deal valued at USD xx Million.
- Innovation Catalysts: Technological advancements in exploration and production techniques.
- Regulatory Landscape: Analysis of licensing rounds, environmental regulations, and fiscal terms.

East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Industry Evolution
This section provides a comprehensive overview of the East African oil and gas upstream market's evolutionary trajectory. We analyze market growth trajectories from 2019 to 2024, forecasting growth rates for 2025-2033. Technological advancements such as improved seismic imaging, enhanced oil recovery techniques, and deepwater drilling capabilities are discussed. Shifting consumer demands for cleaner energy and the resulting influence on investment strategies in fossil fuels are explored. The impact of global energy price fluctuations and geopolitical events on market dynamics are also considered. The analysis includes specific data points like compound annual growth rates (CAGR) for different segments, technological adoption rates and their correlation with market growth. Projected market value in 2025 is estimated at USD xx Million.
Leading Regions, Countries, or Segments in East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market
This section identifies the dominant regions, countries, and segments (onshore vs. offshore) within the East African oil and gas upstream market. We analyze the factors driving the dominance of the leading segments, including investment trends, regulatory support, and resource availability.
- Dominant Region/Country: Tanzania/Mozambique (depending on data analysis).
- Key Drivers for Onshore Dominance: (If onshore is dominant) Abundant onshore resources, lower exploration costs compared to offshore, and established infrastructure.
- Key Drivers for Offshore Dominance: (If offshore is dominant) Potential for large discoveries, technological advancements enabling deepwater exploration, and supportive government policies.
- In-depth Analysis: Detailed analysis of geological formations, resource potential, infrastructure development, and government policies influencing investment decisions in the dominant region/country.
East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Product Innovations
This section highlights significant product innovations, applications, and performance metrics within the East African oil and gas upstream market. It focuses on unique selling propositions and technological advancements in exploration, production, and processing. This includes new drilling techniques, improved recovery methods, and efficient processing technologies resulting in cost reductions and increased production efficiency. Advancements in data analytics and AI-powered predictive modelling are highlighted as they provide increased operational efficiency and risk reduction.
Propelling Factors for East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Growth
Several factors are driving the growth of the East African oil and gas upstream market. These include substantial hydrocarbon reserves, increasing domestic energy demand, supportive government policies promoting exploration and production, and strategic investments from international oil companies. Furthermore, technological advancements in exploration and production techniques are enhancing efficiency and reducing costs, further stimulating growth. The growing demand for natural gas, driven by its cleaner burning characteristics compared to coal and its role in power generation, also fuels market expansion.
Obstacles in the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market
Despite the growth potential, the East African oil and gas upstream market faces several challenges. These include complex geological conditions that increase exploration costs and risks, the logistical challenges associated with infrastructure development in remote areas, potential environmental concerns relating to exploration and production activities, and the ongoing global transition towards renewable energy sources, which could potentially curb long-term investment. Furthermore, regulatory uncertainties and potential political instability in certain regions could disrupt operations and deter investment. These factors could lead to project delays and potentially decrease overall returns on investment.
Future Opportunities in East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market
The East African oil and gas upstream market presents significant future opportunities. Further exploration and exploitation of under-explored basins holds considerable potential for new discoveries. The development of downstream infrastructure, including refineries and pipelines, will enhance value addition and reduce reliance on exports of crude oil. Moreover, the transition towards gas-based power generation offers substantial growth potential for the natural gas segment. The integration of new technologies in exploration and production could lead to further cost reductions and increased efficiency.
Major Players in the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Ecosystem
- Equinor ASA
- Exxon Mobil Corporation
- TotalEnergies SE
- China National Petroleum Corporation
- National Oil Corporation of Kenya
- PanAfrican Energy Tanzania Ltd
Key Developments in East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Industry
- January 2022: Commissioning of Mozambique's first offshore project, the USD 2.5 Billion Coral South FLNG facility, with a capacity to liquefy 3.4 Million tons of natural gas annually. This significantly boosted LNG production capacity in the region and attracted further investment.
- June 2022: Equinor and Shell signed a framework agreement with Tanzania for a planned USD 30 Billion LNG export project in Lindi. This landmark deal underscores the significant potential of the East African LNG sector and signals a strong commitment from major international players.
Strategic East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Forecast
The East African oil and gas upstream market is poised for continued growth, driven by significant hydrocarbon reserves, increasing domestic energy demand, and strategic investments. While challenges exist, ongoing exploration, infrastructure development, and technological advancements will shape the market's trajectory. The forecast suggests a strong upward trend in production and market value over the next decade, with substantial opportunities for both international and national players. The focus on gas production and export is expected to be a dominant feature of this growth.
East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Segmentation
-
1. Location
- 1.1. Onshore
- 1.2. Offshore
-
2. Geography
- 2.1. Tanzania
- 2.2. Mozambique
- 2.3. Kenya
- 2.4. Rest of East Africa
East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Tanzania
- 2. Mozambique
- 3. Kenya
- 4. Rest of East Africa

East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 3.00% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. 4.; Abundant Oil and Gas Reserves4.; Favorable Investment in Upstream Sector
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Volatility of Crude Oil Prices
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Onshore Sector to Dominate the Market
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 5.1.1. Onshore
- 5.1.2. Offshore
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.2.1. Tanzania
- 5.2.2. Mozambique
- 5.2.3. Kenya
- 5.2.4. Rest of East Africa
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Tanzania
- 5.3.2. Mozambique
- 5.3.3. Kenya
- 5.3.4. Rest of East Africa
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 6. Tanzania East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 6.1.1. Onshore
- 6.1.2. Offshore
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.2.1. Tanzania
- 6.2.2. Mozambique
- 6.2.3. Kenya
- 6.2.4. Rest of East Africa
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 7. Mozambique East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 7.1.1. Onshore
- 7.1.2. Offshore
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.2.1. Tanzania
- 7.2.2. Mozambique
- 7.2.3. Kenya
- 7.2.4. Rest of East Africa
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 8. Kenya East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 8.1.1. Onshore
- 8.1.2. Offshore
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.2.1. Tanzania
- 8.2.2. Mozambique
- 8.2.3. Kenya
- 8.2.4. Rest of East Africa
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 9. Rest of East Africa East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 9.1.1. Onshore
- 9.1.2. Offshore
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.2.1. Tanzania
- 9.2.2. Mozambique
- 9.2.3. Kenya
- 9.2.4. Rest of East Africa
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Location
- 10. South Africa East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Sudan East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Uganda East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Tanzania East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Kenya East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Rest of Africa East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Competitive Analysis
- 16.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 16.2. Company Profiles
- 16.2.1 Equinor ASA
- 16.2.1.1. Overview
- 16.2.1.2. Products
- 16.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.2 Exxon Mobil Corporation
- 16.2.2.1. Overview
- 16.2.2.2. Products
- 16.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.3 TotalEnergies SE
- 16.2.3.1. Overview
- 16.2.3.2. Products
- 16.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.4 China National Petroleum Corporation
- 16.2.4.1. Overview
- 16.2.4.2. Products
- 16.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.5 National Oil Corporation of Kenya
- 16.2.5.1. Overview
- 16.2.5.2. Products
- 16.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.6 PanAfrican Energy Tanzania Ltd
- 16.2.6.1. Overview
- 16.2.6.2. Products
- 16.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.1 Equinor ASA
List of Figures
- Figure 1: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: South Africa East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: South Africa East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Sudan East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Sudan East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Uganda East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Uganda East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Tanzania East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Tanzania East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Kenya East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Kenya East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Rest of Africa East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Rest of Africa East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Location 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 45: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 46: East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 3.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market?
Key companies in the market include Equinor ASA, Exxon Mobil Corporation, TotalEnergies SE, China National Petroleum Corporation, National Oil Corporation of Kenya, PanAfrican Energy Tanzania Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market?
The market segments include Location, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Abundant Oil and Gas Reserves4.; Favorable Investment in Upstream Sector.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Onshore Sector to Dominate the Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Volatility of Crude Oil Prices.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In January 2022, Mozambique witnessed the commissioning of its first offshore project. It is a USD 2.5-billion floating Coral South facility above the 450 billion cubic meters (Bcm) of resources in the Coral field in Area 4 of the Rovuma Basin plant. It has the capacity to liquefy 3.4 million ton of natural gas per year from subsea gas-producing wells.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million and volume, measured in K Tons.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the East Africa Oil and Gas Upstream Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence