Last Updated on April 15, 2026 3:22 pm by Maxwell Aliang’ana

Featured image source: citizen Digital

Kenyans are facing a significant rise in fuel prices in Kenya following the latest announcement by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). The new prices, effective from 15th April to 14th May 2026, reflect one of the steepest fuel cost increases in recent months, driven largely by soaring global oil prices.

According to the official EPRA press release, the maximum retail prices of petroleum products have been adjusted upward, with diesel recording the most substantial increase.

Diesel Records Highest Increase

In the latest review, EPRA confirmed that:

• Super petrol has increased by KSh 28.69 per litre
• Diesel has surged by KSh 40.30 per litre
• Kerosene prices have remained unchanged

This sharp rise in diesel prices marks a major shift in fuel prices in Kenya, as diesel is a key fuel for transport, agriculture, and industrial operations. The increase is expected to have widespread economic consequences.

Global Market Pressures Behind the Increase

The surge in fuel prices in Kenya is largely attributed to a sharp increase in the landed cost of imported petroleum products.

EPRA data shows that:

• The landed cost of super petrol rose by 41.53%, from USD 582.11 to USD 823.87 per cubic metre
• Diesel costs increased by 68.72%, from USD 636.45 to USD 1,073.82 per cubic metre
• Kerosene recorded the highest jump at 105.15%, rising from USD 639.48 to USD 1,311.93 per cubic metre

These increases shows the extent of global oil market volatility and its direct impact on local pricing. As Kenya relies entirely on imported fuel, any surge in international prices inevitably affects domestic pump prices.

Government Measures to Cushion Consumers

Despite the sharp increase, the government has implemented measures aimed at cushioning consumers from the full impact of rising fuel prices in Kenya.

EPRA noted that:

• Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products has been reduced from 16% to 13%
• Approximately KSh 6.2 billion from the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) has been used to stabilize prices

These interventions are intended to ease the burden on consumers, although the effectiveness of these measures remains a subject of public debate.

Impact on Households and Daily Life

The increase in fuel prices in Kenya is expected to significantly affect households across the country. Higher fuel costs typically lead to increased transport fares, making daily commuting more expensive.

In addition, the cost of essential goods is likely to rise. Since fuel is a major component in the transportation of goods, increased prices will push up the cost of food and other basic commodities.

For many families already struggling with the high cost of living, the latest price hike adds further financial pressure.

Businesses and Transport Sector Feel the Strain

Businesses are also bracing for the impact of rising fuel prices in Kenya. Industries that depend heavily on fuel, such as logistics, manufacturing, and agriculture, are expected to face higher operational costs.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), in particular, may find it difficult to absorb these costs. Many are likely to pass the burden onto consumers through higher prices, which could slow down economic activity.

The transport sector is among the hardest hit. Public service vehicle operators are expected to increase fares in response to higher diesel prices, directly affecting millions of commuters.

Policy and Regulatory Context

The latest adjustment in fuel prices in Kenya has been made in accordance with Section 101(y) of the Petroleum Act 2019 and relevant legal notices governing fuel pricing.

EPRA also clarified that certain fuel consignments, including deliveries under specific government directives, were not included in the price computation. This highlights the complexity of fuel pricing mechanisms and the various factors involved in determining pump prices.

Outlook for Fuel Prices in Kenya

The future of fuel prices in Kenya remains uncertain, largely due to continued volatility in global oil markets. If international prices remain high, further increases in local fuel costs may be unavoidable.

While government interventions such as tax adjustments and subsidies may provide temporary relief, long-term stability will depend on global market trends and domestic policy decisions.

For now, Kenyans must adjust to the new reality of higher fuel costs and their ripple effects across the economy..

Fuel Price Kenya: Anxiety as Kenyans Brace for New EPRA Review