Kenya now has some of the highest fuel prices in East Africa following the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), with only Rwanda recording higher petrol prices in the region.
In the May 14, 2026 fuel pricing cycle, EPRA raised diesel prices by KSh46.29 per litre, pushing the retail price in Nairobi to KSh242.92 per litre. Super petrol prices also increased by KSh16.65 per litre to retail at KSh214.25 per litre.
The sharp adjustments have triggered widespread public anger, transport disruptions, and nationwide protests led by matatu operators and transport sector lobby groups.
Fuel Prices Across East Africa
Kenya
- Super Petrol: KSh214.25 per litre
- Diesel: KSh242.92 per litre
Tanzania
According to the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA), fuel prices in Dar es Salaam remain slightly lower than Kenya’s:
- Super Petrol: Approximately KSh204 per litre
- Diesel: Approximately KSh211 per litre
Uganda
Uganda operates under a liberalised fuel pricing system where pump prices are determined by market forces rather than government caps.
- Super Petrol: Around KSh179.74 per litre
- Diesel: Around KSh171.37 per litre
Rwanda
Rwanda currently records the highest petrol prices in the region according to the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA):
- Super Petrol: About KSh259.09 per litre
- Diesel: Around KSh194.70 per litre
Ethiopia
Ethiopia continues to enjoy some of the lowest fuel prices in the region:
- Super Petrol: Approximately KSh137.75 per litre
- Diesel: Around KSh148.41 per litre
Why Fuel Prices Increased in Kenya
EPRA attributed the increase to rising global fuel import costs linked to instability in the Middle East and disruptions around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
According to the regulator:
- Imported Super Petrol costs rose by 10 per cent between March and April 2026.
- Diesel import costs jumped by more than 20 per cent during the same period.
EPRA also noted that the government is using approximately KSh5 billion from the Petroleum Development Levy Fund to cushion diesel and kerosene consumers.
Transport Sector Strike
The price increases sparked immediate backlash from public transport operators, who announced a 50 per cent fare hike alongside a nationwide strike beginning Monday, May 18.
The Transport Sector Alliance declared that matatus, buses, taxis, and trucks would suspend operations until the government addresses their concerns over fuel costs.
The strike has already paralysed transport services in several towns, particularly in Nairobi, where thousands of commuters were left stranded at bus stages during the Monday morning rush hour.
