- Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority has announced new fuel prices for the May 15 to June 14, 2026 review period.
- Prices of Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene have increased following higher global oil import costs.
- Rising tensions in the Middle East continue to affect international oil markets and supply routes.
- The government is still using the Petroleum Development Levy Fund to cushion consumers from steeper fuel prices.
- Transport operators and businesses are expected to adjust fares and operational costs in response to the latest review.
Kenyans are set to pay more for fuel after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority announced revised pump prices for the May to June 2026 pricing cycle.
The new prices, which take effect from May 15 to June 14, 2026, affect Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene. The latest review comes amid continued instability in global oil markets driven by geopolitical tensions and rising international fuel costs.
According to EPRA, the increase has largely been caused by a sharp rise in the average landed cost of imported petroleum products. Kenya, which depends heavily on imported fuel, remains highly exposed to changes in global oil prices and foreign exchange fluctuations.
The regulator noted that the government continues to use the Petroleum Development Levy Fund to protect consumers from even higher fuel prices. Without the subsidy support, motorists would reportedly be paying significantly more at fuel stations across the country.
In Nairobi and other major towns, the latest adjustment is expected to increase pressure on households, businesses, and the transport sector. Matatu operators are likely to review fares as operating costs rise, while traders fear the higher fuel prices could trigger an increase in food and commodity prices.
The announcement also sparked reactions online, with many Kenyans expressing frustration over the rising cost of living and the continued increase in essential expenses.
Energy analysts say uncertainty in the global oil market, particularly around supply routes in the Middle East, continues to impact fuel-importing nations such as Kenya. They warn that unless international oil prices stabilize, local pump prices could remain high in the coming months.
EPRA has urged consumers to use fuel responsibly as authorities continue monitoring developments in the international energy market. The regulator also maintained that fuel prices will continue to be reviewed monthly based on global market trends, exchange rates, and import costs.
