ILBISSIL, Kenya — A transport crisis is unfolding in Ilbissil town, Kajiado County, after a severe fuel shortage pushed petrol prices to as high as Sh450 per litre, disrupting mobility and threatening local businesses.
Residents and transport operators along the Nairobi–Namanga Highway say the shortage has grounded vehicles, with many unable to access fuel through official petrol stations.
The situation has triggered accusations of hoarding and black-market sales by some dealers.
Motorists claim that despite continued fuel deliveries to stations, the commodity is not being sold at regulated pump prices. Instead, it is allegedly diverted and sold informally at inflated rates.
“We have just witnessed a tanker delivering fuel to one of the petrol stations, but they are not selling it at the pump. Instead, it is being siphoned into small containers and sold along the roadside at an exorbitant price of Sh450 per litre,” said George Kimani, a matatu operator.
The alleged diversion has forced operators to either suspend services or pass the high fuel costs onto passengers, worsening the cost of living for residents in the area.
“We can only access fuel at normal prices in Kajiado and Namanga towns. We do not understand why Ilbissil is the only area affected,” said Ian Makau, a boda boda rider.
Before the crisis, petrol in the region was retailing at an average of Sh176 per litre, in line with national pricing guidelines set by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
Residents now warn that unless urgent action is taken, transport and commercial activities could grind to a halt.
“It is unfortunate that petrol station owners are hoarding fuel. Transport and businesses that depend on fuel will soon be crippled if the government does not intervene,” said Ian Leyian, a resident.
The allegations point to possible violations of energy sector regulations, including artificial scarcity and price manipulation, which are offences under Kenya’s consumer protection and competition frameworks.
Stakeholders are now calling on the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority to investigate the claims, enforce pricing regulations, and ensure fair distribution of fuel in the affected area.
The crisis also raises broader concerns about supply chain integrity and market oversight, particularly in remote towns where regulatory enforcement may be less visible.
If confirmed, the alleged hoarding could attract penalties, including licence revocation and prosecution, as authorities move to safeguard consumers and stabilise fuel access.
For now, Ilbissil residents remain stranded, with transport paralysis threatening livelihoods and highlighting the fragility of local fuel supply systems.
