The government has disclosed revised fuel prices, reflecting an increase in petrol by Sh5.72, diesel by Sh4.48, and kerosene by Sh2.45 per liter.
As a result, Super Petrol will be available for Sh217.36, diesel at Sh205.47, and kerosene at Sh205.06 in Nairobi.
During a press conference held on Saturday, Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir addressed the nation. He participated in this month’s briefing to shed light on the government’s efforts to address the escalating prices of petroleum products, while simultaneously warning the public to expect additional price hikes.
Chirchir explained, “Yesterday we had a Cabinet meeting where we decided to intervene and alleviate the burden on Kenyans. We used to provide relief through subsidies, but we have now set that aside.”
The Cabinet decided to employ the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) as a means to provide relief to Kenyans.
“We have allocated Sh1.77 billion for this purpose,” Chirchir stated, revealing the specific amounts subtracted due to the removal of the PDL, which include Sh3.07 from super petrol, Sh11.64 from diesel, and Sh9.6 from kerosene.
The Petroleum Development Levy is one of nine taxes imposed on petroleum products.
In August, the government clarified that it was not reinstating fuel subsidies but rather employing fuel stabilization through the Petroleum Development Levy.
Chirchir highlighted that the decision was reached without consulting the parent Energy ministry but received support from the Cabinet.
It’s important to note that the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) typically announces changes in fuel prices on the 14th of each month.
The previous announcement revealed a substantial increase in fuel prices, pushing them beyond the Sh200 per liter threshold. EPRA’s review led to Super Petrol prices soaring by Sh16.96, Diesel by Sh21.32, and Kerosene registering the highest spike at Sh33.13 per liter. Consequently, the prices reached an all-time high of Sh211.64 for Super Petrol, Sh201 for Diesel, and Sh202.13 for Kerosene per liter in Nairobi.
Former Trade Cabinet Secretary and current Public Service Performance and Delivery Management CS Moses Kuria had forewarned Kenyans of the continuing surge in fuel prices.
He conveyed this message on his official social media page, asserting, “Global Crude Prices are on an upward trajectory. For planning purposes, expect pump prices to go up by Ksh 10 every month until February.”
Kuria further emphasized, “I repeat. Petrol will be Ksh.260 by February. El Nino is coming in 3 weeks and will last until March. These factors are driven by global and climate change-related issues. Responsible leaders should communicate the truth to prepare the people, regardless of the criticism they may face.”
