TOUGH TIMES AHEAD AS PETROL, DIESEL CROSS KES. 200 MARK; MWANANCHI TO FEEL THE HEAT

Motorists across the country are set to pay significantly more for fuel following the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), with the new prices taking effect from April 15 to May 14, 2026.

Under the latest adjustment, Super Petrol has increased by Ksh. 28.69 per litre while Diesel has surged by Ksh. 40.30 per litre, with Kerosene prices remaining unchanged. In Nairobi, Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene will now retail at Ksh. 206.97, Ksh. 206.84 and Ksh. 152.78 per litre respectively, effective midnight for the next 30 days.

The sharp rise in pump prices is expected to pile pressure on households and businesses, especially in the capital where fuel consumption is high. The increase in diesel, which powers public transport, goods distribution and key sectors of the economy, is likely to trigger higher matatu fares and a spike in the cost of basic commodities, further squeesing the ordinary mwananchi.

In an effort to cushion consumers from the global surge in oil prices, the government has reduced the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16 per cent to 13 per cent. At the same time, approximately Ksh. 6.2 billion has been drawn from the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) to help stabilise pump prices and prevent an even steeper increase.

Despite these interventions, the impact of rising global fuel costs has outweighed the relief measures. Data from EPRA shows that the average landed cost of imported Super Petrol rose by 41.53 per cent, Diesel by 68.72 per cent, and Kerosene by a staggering 105.15 per cent between February and March, driving the upward adjustment in local prices.

For many Kenyans, the latest review signals tougher days ahead as fuel remains a key driver of the economy. With transport, food and essential goods all closely tied to fuel costs, the burden is once again shifting to the mwananchi, who must now navigate rising expenses despite government efforts to ease the pressure.