Motorists across the country have expressed outrage following the latest fuel price increase announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), warning that the move will further strain already stretched household and business budgets.
In its fuel review released on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, EPRA raised the maximum pump prices of Super Petrol and Diesel by Ksh28.69 and Ksh40.30 per litre, respectively, while leaving kerosene prices unchanged. The new prices, which took effect at midnight, will see Super Petrol retail at sh206.97, Diesel at sh206.84, and Kerosene at sh152.78 for the next 30 days.
The announcement has triggered widespread concern among motorists, particularly in Trans Nzoia County, where residents say the increase is both drastic and unjustified.
Geoffrey Kirui, a resident of Saboti, criticized the government for what he termed as shifting the burden of systemic failures onto ordinary citizens.
“The government has burdened Kenyans with this fuel hike. Why should we bear the cost of theft yet we are innocent?” posed Kirui, adding that the sharp rise in diesel prices is especially alarming given its impact on transport and food prices.
Another resident, Wanyama, questioned the magnitude of the increase, warning that it will inevitably lead to higher transport costs.
“Why hike fuel in that magnitude? This will directly affect transport, making life even harder for wananchi,” he said.
Motorists also pointed out that neighboring countries have not implemented similar hikes, raising concerns about Kenya’s competitiveness and the broader economic implications.
The increase is expected to have a ripple effect across key sectors of the economy, particularly transport, agriculture, and manufacturing, all of which rely heavily on fuel. Public service vehicle operators are already hinting at possible fare adjustments, a move that could further burden commuters.
EPRA typically reviews fuel prices monthly based on global oil prices, exchange rates, and other market dynamics. However, the latest adjustment stands out due to its sharp rise, intensifying public scrutiny over fuel pricing mechanisms in the country.
As Kenyans brace for higher living costs, pressure is mounting on the government to provide clarity on the factors driving the increase and to explore measures to cushion citizens from the economic impact.
