NAIROBI, Kenya — The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has flagged 23 petrol stations for selling adulterated fuel, despite reporting high overall compliance in a nationwide quality enforcement drive.
In its Biannual Statistics Report for 2025–2026, EPRA said it conducted 10,598 fuel sample tests across 2,305 outlets countrywide, with 2,282 stations—representing 99 per cent—meeting the required standards.
“Out of the tests carried out, 2,282 stations… were found to be compliant. However, 23 stations were non-compliant, and appropriate penalties were imposed,” the regulator said.
The affected outlets were identified across multiple counties, including Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Kisumu, Machakos, Makueni, Bungoma, Vihiga, Nyandarua, Kwale, Kilifi, Meru, and Mombasa, highlighting the widespread nature of the malpractice.
Fuel adulteration, often involving the mixing of kerosene with petrol or diesel to boost profits, has long plagued Kenya’s petroleum sector.
The practice not only violates regulatory standards but also poses risks to consumers by damaging vehicle engines and reducing performance.
To combat the vice, EPRA said it continues to deploy fuel marking technology, which involves adding chemical markers to petroleum products to detect tampering or diversion along the supply chain.
The authority has also introduced mobile testing units equipped with advanced analysers capable of delivering near-instant, forensic-level results, significantly improving detection and enforcement.
“These portable systems provide near forensic-level analysis, making it increasingly difficult for illegal operators to evade detection,” EPRA noted.
The report indicates that while isolated breaches persist, compliance levels remain high, signalling progress in ongoing efforts to clean up the sector and protect consumers.
Meanwhile, demand for petroleum products in Kenya continues to rise.
The country imported more than 5.6 million cubic metres of fuel during the review period, with domestic consumption exceeding 3.1 million cubic metres—an increase of over eight per cent compared to the previous cycle.
The growth has been attributed to increased travel and higher diesel usage, particularly during festive seasons.
EPRA also reported a surge in licensing activity, issuing nearly 9,500 licences between July and December 2025 for operations including fuel retail, liquefied petroleum gas distribution, transportation, and storage.
Under the Energy Act and related regulations, EPRA is mandated to enforce fuel quality standards and ensure consumer protection.
The regulator warned that non-compliant operators will continue to face strict penalties as part of sustained enforcement efforts.
