Kenyan Motorists Face Rising Fuel Costs
Kenya may soon experience higher fuel prices as international crude oil hits Ksh 8,643 ($67) per barrel. Consequently, motorists and households could feel the financial impact immediately.
The spike stems from escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, a leading global oil exporter.
Previously, crude traded at Ksh 7,700 ($60) per barrel. Therefore, supply concerns and geopolitical risks push global oil prices upward.
How Last Year’s Fuel Prices Hit Kenyans
In 2025, Kenya saw multiple fuel price surges due to fluctuating crude oil and exchange rates. For example, in August, Super Petrol hit a record Ksh180 per litre.
Diesel and Kerosene also surged, peaking at Ksh168 and Ksh155, respectively.
These increases directly impacted transport costs, raising matatu and bus fares by 5–15%. Consequently, goods and food prices also climbed as transportation expenses were passed to consumers.
Small businesses reported tighter margins, while households had to allocate more of their budgets to fuel.
Moreover, the Kenyan shilling weakened against the U.S. dollar during periods of high crude costs. This further inflated import costs, magnifying the effects on domestic fuel prices.
EPRA’s Role in Price Adjustments
EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) reviews fuel prices monthly based on crude costs, exchange rates, and importation charges. While the February-March 2026 review offered temporary relief, future adjustments could reverse these gains if crude remains high.
What Citizens Can Expect
If global crude prices stay elevated and the shilling weakens, Kenyans could see pump prices rise beyond last year’s peaks. Consequently, daily commuting, transport of goods, and household budgets may face renewed pressure.
The interplay of global oil markets, currency fluctuations, and import dependence drove last year’s fuel price surges. Therefore, continued monitoring is critical as citizens prepare for potential increases in 2026.
