NAIROBI, Kenya – Motorists and households across Kenya are facing a fresh cost-of-living squeeze after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced sharp increases in pump prices, raising Super Petrol by Sh12.93 per litre, diesel by Sh9.90 and kerosene by Sh28.49.
Under the new prices, Super Petrol will retail at Sh226.96 per litre in Nairobi, while diesel will cost Sh227.76 and kerosene Sh219.87.
The increases come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and rising international petroleum prices, with the government also opting not to apply fuel price stabilisation during the latest pricing cycle.
New Fuel Prices Across Nairobi And Mombasa
EPRA announced the following maximum retail prices for the two cities:
| Fuel Type | Nairobi | Mombasa |
|---|---|---|
| Super Petrol | Sh226.96 | Sh223.81 |
| Diesel | Sh227.76 | Sh224.61 |
| Kerosene | Sh219.87 | Sh216.71 |
The higher pump prices are expected to increase transport and household energy expenses, while raising operating costs for businesses that rely on fuel to move goods and provide services.
Government Holds Back Fuel Price Stabilisation
EPRA Director General Engineer Edward Mwirigi Kinyua said the government would not introduce stabilisation measures during the latest pricing cycle, with the savings being retained for possible future use if international prices rise further.
“We will not introduce the stabilisation for this pricing cycle so that the amounts being saved today can be utilised in the future if the prices were to go burst,” the director general said.
The decision means consumers will bear more of the impact of the latest changes in international petroleum costs rather than receiving relief through the stabilisation mechanism during this cycle.
Middle East Conflict Pushes Up Petroleum Costs
Kinyua attributed the increases partly to developments in the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, alongside demand and changes in international fuel prices.
He said September had been the worst month since the war began, with the international price of Super Petrol rising to US$1,300 per metric tonne from an initial US$600 per metric tonne.
Earlier in the week, crude oil prices climbed to about US$106 per barrel before easing.
International petroleum prices, shipping costs, insurance and supply disruptions can all influence the cost of importing fuel into Kenya, with changes eventually reflected in local pump prices.
Fuel Hike Threatens To Deepen Cost-Of-Living Pressure
The latest increase is likely to put additional pressure on households and businesses already grappling with transport, food and operating expenses.
Higher diesel prices can raise the cost of transporting agricultural produce and other goods, while increases in petrol prices affect motorists and public transport operators. The kerosene increase is particularly significant for households that rely on the fuel for cooking and lighting.
