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Fuel prices play a central role in the cost of goods and services across the economy, meaning any increase at the pump would have pushed up transport, production, and household expenses. With shipment costs for diesel and kerosene rising by up to five percent last month, the government increased subsidies to shield consumers and prevent further strain on the cost of living.
Kenya’s EPRA has left petrol, diesel and kerosene prices unchanged from December 15, 2025 to January 14, 2026, citing mixed global oil trends and a stable shilling.
In a comparison that highlighted the problem, senators noted that a litre of petrol in Nairobi costs Sh186.31, while in Kigali, Rwanda—despite being landlocked and importing its fuel through Dar es Salaam, the price stands at Sh161.80 per litre.
Protesters took to the streets after the government raised fuel prices on July 1, a move that has sparked widespread anger and frustration.