A fuel supplier involved in the Ksh 4.8 billion scandal in Kenya has revealed behind-the-scenes dealings with the government over the MT Paloma fuel import controversy.
On April 29, One Petroleum Limited, a company linked to the MT Paloma vessel, issued a statement stating that the Ministry of Energy convened an industry meeting on 18 March 2026 to review petroleum stock levels, where the need to increase operational reserves was identified.
“During this meeting, it was highlighted that there was a need to shore up the operational stock reserves,” read part of the One Petroleum Limited statement.
One Petroleum Limited Details Emergency Procurement and Govt Request
According to the company, the Ministry subsequently requested bids from suppliers on 19 March 2026 for an emergency petroleum cargo ranging from 35,000 to 85,000 metric tonnes.
The firm indicated that, due to high global demand linked to the Middle East conflict, it sourced a shipment owned by British Petroleum that was initially destined for Angola but was available for delivery within three days because of its proximity to Kenya.
In its submission, the company stated that it disclosed product specifications to the Ministry, after which the Ministry of Trade granted a waiver, adding that the product met petroleum standards applicable in several Southern African markets and had previously complied with Kenyan standards.
“When responding with our offer, we disclosed to the Ministry the specs of the product. A waiver was subsequently applied for and granted, as confirmed by the Ministry of Trade,” One Petroleum stated.
One Petroleum further noted that the commingling of fuel and off-spec imports is a standard global industry practice and has occurred in Kenya on previous consignments.
The company reported that by 7 April 2026, 20 percent of the consignment had been paid for and collected by oil marketing companies allocated by the Ministry, prior to the issuance of a policy directive.
It added that despite incurring financial costs and having no legal obligation, it complied with the revised government position by withdrawing invoices for products intended for the local market.
Also Read: Little-Known Details of One Petroleum and Oryx Energies Companies
“We have at all times fully cooperated with all government authorities and investigators,” they confirmed.
One Petroleum Confirms Action on MT Paloma Cargo Following Government Consultations
One Petroleum Limited had earlier stated that it was among four bidders that responded to an emergency petroleum supply request issued by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum in March 2026.
According to a statement dated 7 April 2026, the company confirmed that the procurement process was undertaken following consultations with the Government of Kenya.
“In March, One Petroleum Limited, was one of four bidders that successfully responded to an emergency request issued by the Kenya Ministry of Energy and Petroleum,” the notice read.
The firm further stated that it had taken steps to ensure that the petroleum cargo delivered on 27 March 2026 via MT Paloma does not enter the Kenyan market.
Also Read: One Petroleum Stops Distribution of March 27 Fuel Shipment
One Petroleum Limited issued the clarification as part of its response regarding the handling and disposition of the imported petroleum consignment.
The MT Paloma Vessel Saga
MT Paloma crude oil tanker, flagged in the Marshall Islands, was en route from Mombasa, Kenya, to Port Elizabeth, South Africa, after offloading a major petroleum consignment.
The vessel was linked to a Sh4.8 billion fuel scandal involving the alleged importation of approximately 68,000 tonnes of petroleum products into Kenya between 27 and 29 March 2026.
This shipment was imported by One Petroleum Limited and is at the center of investigations that have already led to the resignation of three senior petroleum sector officials.
