How CAMAL’s Equipment Sourcing from China Saved a Kenyan Oil Company Time & Money

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March 23, 2025 By Kerry Li

Introduction

    • Imagine working in a remote area with harsh terrain, where every tool and machine must work perfectly, and where maintaining efficiency and reliability is a top priority.
    • Tullow Oil, a renowned, independent oil and energy company, faced unique challenges in remote areas of Kenya, where they needed a solution that would provide a stable, efficient workspace with essential tools, be adaptable to rough terrain, and supply power in the most challenging environments.
    • Tullow Oil turned to CAMAL for an innovative solution that exceeded their expectations.

Let’s explore how CAMAL delivered an exceptional mobile workshop that transformed Tullow’s field operations.

The Story of Tullow Oil Company

    • Tullow Oil is a major player in the oil and gas industry, known for its expertise in exploration, development, and production.
    • Headquartered in London, the company operates across multiple continents, with a strong focus on Africa.
    • Their Jubilee and TEN oil fields are making a positive impact in Ghana.
    • Tullow combines advanced technology with a commitment to sustainability, driving progress in the energy sector.
    • In Kenya, Tullow is working to provide energy to local communities.
    • However, the challenges of operating in remote areas led them to seek a reliable partner to improve their logistics.

CAMAL's mobile workshop at the factory, ready for deployment

CAMAL’s mobile workshop at the factory, designed for remote operations and enhanced efficiency.

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Tullow Oil’s Challenge of Remote Field Operations Before CAMAL’s Mobile Workshop

Despite their success, Tullow Oil company faced major challenges in their operations. Working in remote locations brought several difficulties that affected their efficiency and productivity. Key challenges included:

Space Limitations

    • Their previous setups didn’t have enough space to store all the tools needed for on-site work.
    • This made it hard for technicians to quickly access equipment, leading to delays.

Adapting to Rough Terrain

    • Many remote areas had uneven or rough terrain, which made it difficult for standard vehicles or workshops to function effectively.
    • The company needed a solution that could handle these conditions without losing stability or performance.

The orange mobile workshop by Sinotruk that CAMAL is able to source from China.

CAMAL helps companies various mining companies with equipment sourcing from China.

Power Supply Problems

    • Field operations required reliable electricity, but remote areas often lacked access to power.
    • They needed a workshop with its power generation and enough fuel storage for long-term use.

Need for Customization

    • The company had specific requirements, like certain tool arrangements and unique operational features, which standard mobile workshops couldn’t meet.

Opportunities for Improvement

To solve these issues, the company decided to invest in a custom mobile workshop. A well-designed solution could:

    • Offer a centralized and organized space for tools and equipment.
    • Operate smoothly on rough terrain.
    • Provide reliable power and fuel storage for continuous use.
    • Boost overall efficiency and productivity in remote areas.

Tullow Oil operations in a remote location in Kenya.

Tullow Oil Company operations in a remote Kenyan location.

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Why Tullow Oil chose CAMAL

Tullow Oil’s search for a reliable partner led them to CAMAL, a global leader in procurement and supply chain solutions. After evaluating other providers, CAMAL stood out for its:

Reputation for Excellence

    • CAMAL is known for delivering high-quality, customized solutions to meet the unique needs of businesses.
    • Their expertise in sourcing and combining components ensured the final product met all the company’s requirements.

Comprehensive Support

    • CAMAL provided full support, from understanding the company’s needs to sourcing suppliers, selecting manufacturers, and managing shipping.
    • This efficient process gave the company confidence that the project was in good hands.

Tullow Oil operations in a remote location in Kenya.

CAMAL’s equipment sourcing strategy involves procuring equipment from a long list of manufacturing companies in China.

Access to Top Manufacturers

    • With a global network, CAMAL sourced high-quality components like chassis from Sinotruk, generators, and tools.
    • This ensured the workshop could perform reliably in tough conditions.

Commitment to Quality

    • CAMAL’s focus on exceeding expectations made them the perfect partner.
    • The company trusted CAMAL to deliver a workshop that was not only functional but also durable and highly efficient.

How CAMAL Responded

Once engaged, CAMAL initiated a detailed requirements analysis, collaborating closely with Tullow Oil to understand their operational needs. The process unfolded as follows:

Requirements Analysis

    • CAMAL began by collaborating with the client to understand their needs in detail. This included:
      • Assessing the size and type of tools to be accommodated.
      • Evaluating the terrain and power demands of their operational locations.
      • Identifying specific features, like a silenced generator, to ensure quiet and efficient operation.

Tools inside CAMAL's mobile workshop, organized for use.

CAMAL’s mobile workshop equipped with essential tools for remote operations.

Supplier Sourcing

    • Using its extensive network, CAMAL sourced components from trusted manufacturers::
      • Chassis: Sinotruk, known for durability and performance on rough terrains.
      • Generators and Tools: High-quality suppliers ensuring reliability and efficiency.

A full view of Sinotruk mobile workshop.

Mobile workshop, manufactured by Sinotruk and sourced from China by the CAMAL Group.

Manufacturer Selection

    • CAMAL identified a manufacturer capable of integrating all components into a cohesive mobile workshop.

A truck's chasis by Sinotruk.

CAMAL is a major player in the equipment sourcing market, sourcing different equipment and steel from China to the world.

Customization

    • The workshop was equipped with a silencer for the generator, ensuring quiet operation, and designed to withstand Kenya’s demanding landscapes.

Shipping and Delivery

    • CAMAL managed the end-to-end logistics, ensuring the finished product arrived on time and in perfect condition.
    • CAMAL ensured the completed mobile workshop was shipped to Kenya and delivered directly to the client.

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The Results

Partnering with CAMAL delivered measurable results for Tullow Oil Company:

    • Increased Productivity: Technicians worked more efficiently with everything they needed in one place.
    • Cost Savings: The customized solution eliminated the need for multiple setups, reducing operational expenses.

Mobile workshop with all the equipment for remote operations.

Sinotruk mobile workshop and all the equipment sourced by CAMAL for the Kenyan oil company.

    • Enhanced Reliability: The mobile workshop’s durability and advanced features ensured smooth operations even in the most remote locations.
    • Improved Reputation: The company could deliver consistent, high-quality service to its clients, strengthening its position in the industry.

CAMAL Experience

CAMAL is a global procurement and supply chain management firm specializing in sourcing industrial materials and equipment from China for clients worldwide. Our services encompass the entire procurement process, from supplier identification to delivery, ensuring clients receive quality products tailored to their specific needs.

CAMAL's noise reduction generator casing for quiet operation.

CAMAL’s noise reduction generator casing ensures quiet and efficient operation in remote areas.

Key Services

    • Customized Procurement: CAMAL tailors sourcing strategies to meet each client’s unique requirements, ensuring the procurement of suitable products.
    • End-to-End Solutions: We manage the entire supply chain process, allowing clients to focus on their core business operations.
    • Quality Control: CAMAL emphasizes maintaining product quality while optimizing costs, ensuring clients receive reliable and durable materials.
    • Global Sourcing Network: With established relationships with top suppliers, CAMAL sources high-quality products, including steel, chemicals, and machinery, for clients across various industries.

Workers in the oil and gas company putting robes in an anchor.

Workers in action in the oil company.

Notable Projects

    • High Durability 6×4 Dump Trucks: CAMAL assisted a leading regional logistics company in Kenya by sourcing 25-ton dump trucks capable of withstanding tough conditions. They achieved a 12% cost saving by negotiating directly with manufacturers.
    • Sodium Thioglycolate for Chemical Manufacturing: For a large European chemical manufacturer in Poland, CAMAL sourced 40% grade sodium thioglycolate, enhancing the client’s chemical production process.
    • Seamless Steel Pipes: CAMAL enabled a bolt manufacturing company in South Africa to import high-quality seamless steel pipes, navigating rising steel prices in China to achieve significant cost savings and timely delivery.

Female worker tying bolts.

CAMAL helps businesses export to and import mining chemicals, equipment, steel, and building materials from China.

Global Reach

    • CAMAL has exported products to numerous countries, including Australia, Kenya, South Africa, Brazil, Peru, Turkey, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Algeria, Mozambique, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
    • Our international team possesses both technical and sales expertise, providing comprehensive support to clients worldwide.
    • By leveraging our extensive experience and global network, we offer customized solutions that help businesses optimize their procurement processes, reduce costs, and maintain high-quality standards in their operations.

Interior of CAMAL's mobile workshop, well-organized for operations.

Inside CAMAL’s mobile workshop, designed for efficiency and organized operations.

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CAMAL’s Services for Selling Your Product in China

🔍 Finding Buyers in China

Service What We Do
Identify Buyers Search for companies interested in your product
Verify Buyers Conduct due diligence to check buyer legitimacy and reliability

🤝 Engaging/Meeting Buyers in China

Service What We Do
Connect & Discuss Start conversations and gather interest
Market & Sell Guide you on how to sell effectively in China
Test & Validate Facilitate sample requests and product testing
Meetings Set up necessary meetings with buyers

📜 Contract Negotiation with Buyers in China

Service What We Do
Negotiate Deals Help secure good prices and payment terms
Contracts & Translation Assist with translation and deal finalization

🚢 Logistics to China

Service What We Do
Documentation Ensure all required documents are in order
Risk Management Help avoid fraud and business risks

 🔄 After Sales Support in China

Service What We Do
Follow-Up Maintain communication with buyers
Extra Support Provide any additional help needed

Why Choose CAMAL?

China/International Expertise

    • We have offices in China, Singapore, Kenya, Zambia, and beyond, providing deep knowledge of both international and Chinese markets.

Proven Track Record

    • Since 2010, we’ve successfully facilitated trades in manganese, copper, chrome, marble, and iron among others to real buyers, ensuring transparency and favorable terms for our clients.

Hands-On Support

    • CAMAL is not just about finding buyers. We visit buyers, facilitate negotiations, and ensure your cargo is properly handled all the way to the Chinese ports.

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CAMAL Market Entry Service Plan Structure

Our structure is flexible to accommodate your specific needs

Commodity Trading Services Fees
Phase I

Buyer Identification & Engagement

Fixed Fee (to be discussed)
Phase IA

China Engagement Trip

Direct Costs Only
Phase II

Trade Support for the Client with Selected Buyer

% (to be discussed)

CAMAL’s flexible Market Entry Service Plan adapts to your needs, covering buyer engagement, China trips, and trade support with tailored fees.

Conclusion

CAMAL’s work with Tullow Oil shows how smart solutions can solve tough problems and help businesses grow, even in challenging environments. The mobile workshop didn’t just meet Tullow’s needs—it set a new standard for efficiency and innovation in remote operations.

At CAMAL, we’re committed to providing quality, reliable, and customer-focused services. Whether you’re dealing with tricky logistics, operating in hard-to-reach areas, or need top-notch procurement solutions, we have the expertise to make your operations better and easier.

How can CAMAL help you manage your China Sourcing?

✅ Do you spend too much time finding the right manufacturers in China?

✅Do you face difficulties in communicating your requirements to suppliers in China?

✅ Do your products often need customization just for you?

✅ Do you wish someone could help you with end-to-end procurement, so you can focus on growing your business?

If your answer is YES, Reduce Your China Sourcing Headaches, Contact Us Now for a FREE Consultation

CAMAL: Quality Factories = Quality Products = Happy Customers✅