NAIROBI, Kenya — Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has assured Kenyans that the country has secured adequate fuel supplies through the end of July, while signalling a further reduction in diesel prices in the next monthly fuel review.
The announcement followed a consultative meeting between the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and representatives of the manufacturing sector, where concerns over energy affordability, reliability, and supply featured prominently.
Wandayi said the government had put in place measures to protect the country from disruptions in international energy markets and guarantee a steady supply of petroleum products.
“Fuel deliveries have already been secured through the end of July, ensuring uninterrupted supply and shielding Kenyans from the shortages and disruptions experienced elsewhere,” he said.
Diesel Prices Set for Further Reduction
The Energy CS also announced plans for an additional reduction in diesel prices during the next fuel pricing review, in line with a directive issued by President William Ruto.
According to Wandayi, lowering diesel costs remains a priority because of its central role in transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, and other productive sectors of the economy.
“In line with the commitment made by His Excellency the President to the public transport sector and other industry players, the Government will ensure further reduction in diesel prices in the next monthly review,” he said.
He noted that lower diesel prices would ease operating costs for businesses while providing relief to households through reduced transport and commodity costs.
“Lower diesel prices ultimately translate into lower costs for businesses and greater relief for Kenyan families,” he added.
Government Suspends Power Tariff Increase
The CS said the government remains committed to ensuring affordable and reliable energy to support economic growth and industrial competitiveness.
As part of those efforts, the government has suspended a proposed electricity tariff review that would have increased power costs for consumers and businesses.
In addition, electricity prices have declined by Sh0.2685 per kilowatt-hour from June 2026 following lower foreign exchange adjustment charges, reduced fuel energy costs, and increased hydropower generation.
“To cushion businesses and, in extension, households, the Government suspended the proposed electricity tariff review,” Wandayi said.
Manufacturers Seek Relief From Rising Costs
The meeting with manufacturers focused on challenges facing the sector, including production costs, cash-flow constraints, and growing competition in regional and international markets.
Wandayi acknowledged the strategic importance of manufacturing to Kenya’s economy, noting that the sector remains a major source of employment, exports, and government revenue.
He said initiatives such as the Time-of-Use tariff programme are helping industries reduce electricity expenses by encouraging consumption during off-peak periods when power is cheaper.
Focus on Long-Term Energy Security
The CS said the government will continue investing in power generation, transmission infrastructure, and renewable energy projects to strengthen long-term energy security.
“Our objective is to ensure that energy remains a catalyst for growth by delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable power that enhances competitiveness rather than undermines it,” he said.
With the next fuel review expected in the coming weeks, businesses and consumers will be closely watching whether the promised diesel price reduction materialises and how it affects transport and production costs across the economy.
