Kenya’s liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector has become one of the fastest-growing segments in the country’s energy industry.
As households and businesses shift toward cleaner cooking solutions, the demand for LPG has surged—attracting some of Kenya’s most powerful billionaires and political figures.
These individuals have invested heavily in gas infrastructure, distribution networks, and branding, positioning themselves at the center of a highly competitive and strategic market.
Muhammed Jaffer – Proto Energy / Pro Gas
Mohammed Jaffer is one of the most prominent figures in Kenya’s LPG industry. He is the founder of Proto Energy Limited, a subsidiary of Africa Gas and Oil (AGOL), which operates the widely recognized Pro Gas brand.
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Through his investments, Jaffer has built a vertically integrated energy business that spans storage, logistics, and distribution. His company plays a major role in importing LPG through the Port of Mombasa and distributing it across Kenya and the wider East African region.
Pro Gas has become a household name, known for its availability and expanding footprint. Jaffer’s success highlights the importance of scale and infrastructure in dominating the LPG market.
Ahmed Hashi – Hashi Energy / Hashi Gas
Ahmed Hashi is another key player in Kenya’s gas industry and the founder of Hashi Energy Limited. With over three decades of experience in petroleum distribution, Hashi has built a strong reputation in both fuel and LPG markets.
His brand, Hashi Gas, is widely distributed across Kenya and neighbouring countries. The company offers LPG in various cylinder sizes, targeting both domestic and commercial users.
Hashi’s journey from a small-scale kerosene distributor to a billionaire energy entrepreneur reflects the rapid evolution of Kenya’s energy sector and the opportunities within it.
William Ruto – Kitengela Gas
William Ruto has also been linked to the LPG sector through Kitengela Gas, a company associated with his business interests.
The company has been mentioned in official disclosures and parliamentary discussions, indicating its role within Kenya’s broader energy landscape. While not as publicly marketed as other brands, its association with a high-profile political figure highlights the intersection between business and politics in the sector.
Ruto’s involvement underscores the strategic importance of LPG as Kenya pushes toward cleaner energy solutions.
Raila Odinga – Energy Sector Interests
Raila Odinga is also reported to have interests in the oil and gas sector, although specific LPG brand details are less publicly documented.
His involvement reflects how influential political figures continue to engage in Kenya’s energy industry, either directly or through associated investments.
This connection further emphasizes the high stakes in the LPG market, where business, policy, and national energy strategies often overlap.
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The dominance of these billionaires in Kenya’s LPG sector highlights just how critical the industry has become. Cooking gas is no longer just a household necessity—it is a key component of Kenya’s transition to cleaner, safer, and more sustainable energy sources.
With rising demand, companies are investing heavily in:
- Storage infrastructure
- Distribution networks
- Cylinder manufacturing and branding
However, the concentration of market power among a few large players also raises questions about pricing, competition, and accessibility for ordinary consumers.
As Kenya continues to move away from charcoal and firewood, the role of LPG will only grow—and so will the influence of the billionaires behind it.
Ultimately, figures like Mohammed Jaffer and Ahmed Hashi, alongside political heavyweights such as William Ruto and Raila Odinga, will continue to shape the future of energy access in Kenya.
