NAIROBI, Kenya — Motorists across Kenya are facing fuel shortages at Shell service stations, following a surge in demand that has strained distribution networks.
Vivo Energy Kenya, the company responsible for marketing and distributing Shell products in the country, confirmed the disruptions in a public statement issued Thursday.
The company explained that temporary stock-outs have occurred at select service stations due to increased demand, particularly in Nairobi and surrounding regions.
Motorists reported dry pumps in areas such as Magadi Road and Kiserian earlier this week, raising concerns about wider supply challenges.
Vivo Energy assured customers that the situation is being closely monitored and that teams are working to replenish affected sites swiftly.
“We have recently experienced increased demand for our products, which has resulted in temporary stock-outs at some service stations. Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and working continuously to replenish affected sites as quickly as possible,” the statement read.
The shortages come at a time when Kenya’s petroleum sector is under pressure, with independent fuel dealers warning of possible nationwide disruptions unless regulators adjust pricing frameworks.
Analysts point to global crude price volatility and local distribution bottlenecks as contributing factors.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead, as queues have already formed at several stations, and supply may remain uneven until replenishment stabilizes.
