KIGALI, Rwanda — Rwandans will now pay more for fuel than Kenyans after the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) announced new pump prices taking effect on Saturday, June 6 at 6:00 am, reflecting continued pressure from global oil markets.
In the revised pricing, petrol will retail at not more than 2,938 Rwandan Francs (about Sh259.78), while diesel will cost up to 2,927 Rwandan Francs (about Sh258.81), according to a communiqué issued by the regulator.
The new rates place Rwanda’s fuel prices above Kenya’s current Nairobi pump prices, where motorists have been paying Sh214.25 for super petrol, Sh232.86 for diesel, and Sh191.38 for kerosene following the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) review on May 18.
Sharp Increases Driven by Global Market Pressures
RURA attributed the adjustments to shifts in international petroleum markets and supply chain conditions, noting that Rwanda’s reliance on imported fuel through regional corridors exposes it to global price volatility, freight costs, and logistical disruptions.
The regulator said petrol prices have increased by nearly 48 pc since early April, while diesel has risen by more than 32 pc over the same period, highlighting the speed of recent upward pressure on fuel costs.
Despite the increase, authorities emphasized that government interventions had partially absorbed the impact of global market movements.
Transport Fares Shielded From Immediate Hikes
Unlike fuel prices, public transport fares will remain unchanged, with the government stepping in to cushion operators against rising costs.
RURA said support measures are being implemented to help transport providers manage fuel price increases without passing the burden directly to commuters.
“Government interventions have helped moderate the increase in pump prices, keeping them below the level that would result from market conditions alone,” the regulator noted in its statement signed by Director General Evariste Rugigana.
The agency added that continued support is aimed at ensuring affordable transport services and stabilizing freight operations across the country.
Regional Fuel Price Dynamics
The latest adjustment highlights widening fuel price differences within the East African region, driven largely by varying subsidy policies, taxation structures, and import logistics.
Kenya, which adjusts fuel prices monthly through EPRA, has recently seen mixed movements, including a Sh10.06 drop in diesel prices and a sharp rise in kerosene by Sh38.60 per litre in the latest review cycle.
Rwanda’s upward revision comes at a time when global oil prices remain sensitive to geopolitical and supply chain fluctuations, keeping pressure on import-dependent economies.
Authorities in Kigali say they will continue monitoring the market closely to maintain stability and ensure a consistent fuel supply nationwide.
