Diesel and kerosene drop slightly, but rising fuel costs keep pressure on households and businesses
NAIROBI — Petrol prices in Kenya have soared once again, with the country’s energy regulator announcing a rise of Sh2.69 per litre in its latest monthly review.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) said the new rates, which came into effect at midnight, will remain in place until mid-July. In Nairobi, a litre of Super Petrol now retails at Sh177.32.
At the same time, there was some relief at the pump: diesel dropped by Sh1.95 to Sh162.91, and kerosene fell by Sh2.06 to Sh146.93 per litre.
These adjustments follow a period of price stability in May, when EPRA left fuel costs unchanged.
In a statement, the regulator explained the changes are part of scheduled reviews under Kenyan law. The prices, it said, include a 16% VAT and adjustments for inflation tied to the Finance Act 2023, the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2024, and earlier legal notices on excise rates.
Cost of Living Still a Sore Point
While the diesel and kerosene cuts may benefit public transport and low-income households that rely on paraffin for cooking, the increase in petrol costs is expected to hit private motorists, delivery services, and many small businesses already strained by rising living expenses.
James Kamau, a boda boda operator in Nairobi’s Donholm area, said the hike would bite into already tight margins.
“Petrol is our lifeline. Every shilling matters,” he told media sources. “Even two shillings can make the difference between profit and loss.”
The government has faced growing public pressure over high energy prices, with fuel costs often cited as a major driver of inflation.
Analysts say the situation remains delicate. Global oil prices have seen moderate fluctuations in recent months, while the weakening shilling has pushed import costs higher.
“Fuel pricing in Kenya is a balancing act,” said energy economist Faith Ngugi. “EPRA walks a tightrope between protecting consumers and ensuring suppliers stay afloat.”
Kenya’s Growing Global Footprint in Energy Regulation
Amid domestic concerns, EPRA itself is gaining international recognition. The agency’s Director General, Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, was this week appointed Vice Chair of the International Confederation of Energy Regulators (ICER), a global network of over 200 energy oversight bodies.
Kiptoo said the role was a vote of confidence in Kenya’s reform path.
“This appointment reflects the credibility of our regulatory systems and the progress we’ve made in pushing for clean, inclusive energy,” he said.
It’s the latest in a string of international leadership positions for Kiptoo, who now represents Kenya in several high-level energy forums, including RETA and RAERESA, both focused on renewable transition across Africa.
His elevation may boost investor confidence in Kenya’s regulatory space, but back home, many citizens remain focused on the immediate challenge rising daily costs.
“Global leadership is great,” said Wanjiku Mugo, a grocery vendor in Nairobi. “But we just want to afford fuel to get our kids to school.”
As fuel prices continue to stir debate, the next 30 days will be closely watched both at the pump and in Parliament, where lawmakers are under pressure to address Kenya’s deepening cost-of-living crisis.
