Kenya fuel prices highest in region after latest EPRA review

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 16 – Kenya now has some of the highest fuel prices in the East African region following the latest increase announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority.

Under the new review, super petrol in Nairobi now retails at Sh214.25 per litre while diesel costs Sh242.92, making Kenya’s diesel prices significantly higher than those in neighboring countries.

Data released by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry shows diesel in Uganda retails at about Sh174.37 per litre, nearly 28 percent lower than Kenya’s price.

In Tanzania, diesel sells at around Sh211.40 per litre, about 13 percent lower than Kenya, while Burundi and Ethiopia also recorded lower diesel prices.

Although Rwanda’s petrol prices remain higher than Kenya’s at about Sh259 per litre, its diesel prices are still lower at roughly Sh194.70 per litre.

KNCCI warned that Kenya’s high fuel prices are weakening the country’s competitiveness in transport, manufacturing, logistics and regional trade.

Erick Rutto said the sharp rise in diesel prices will have widespread effects across the economy because diesel powers transport, agriculture, logistics and manufacturing.

The chamber noted that while global crude oil prices have risen due to tensions in the Middle East and disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, Kenya’s domestic taxes, levies and other charges are amplifying the increase locally.

KNCCI estimates the latest fuel review could raise transport and logistics costs by up to 20 percent and increase food and consumer goods prices by between 3 and 7 percent.