Kenyan households and businesses are facing fresh cost-of-living pressure after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced sharp increases in fuel prices for the October-November 2026 pricing period.
The regulator raised the price of a litre of super petrol by KSh12.93, diesel by KSh9.90 and kerosene by KSh28.49, with the new rates taking effect at midnight on October 15.
Under the latest review, Nairobi motorists will pay a maximum of KSh226.96 per litre for super petrol, KSh227.76 for diesel and KSh219.85 for kerosene.
The increases are expected to put pressure on transport expenses and business operating costs, with possible knock-on effects on fares, food prices and other essential goods.
EPRA Explains Fuel Price Increases
EPRA Director-General Edward Mwirigi Kinyua attributed the increases to escalating conflict in the Middle East, which has disrupted petroleum supply chains and pushed up international fuel import costs.
The new maximum retail prices will remain in force until November 14, 2026, before the next monthly review.
Prices in other towns will vary depending on transportation costs and other factors considered in calculating maximum retail rates.
Diesel Increase Could Push Up Transport Costs
The diesel price increase could have far-reaching consequences because the fuel powers much of Kenya’s freight transport sector and a significant portion of public service vehicle operations.
Higher diesel costs could increase the expense of moving agricultural produce, manufactured goods and other commodities from production centres to markets.
Transport operators may also face pressure to adjust fares to cover higher fuel expenses, potentially increasing the cost of commuting for households.
Businesses that rely on road transport could experience higher distribution costs, which may eventually be passed on to consumers through increased prices for goods and services.
Kerosene Users Face Steepest Increase
Kerosene recorded the largest increase in the latest review, rising by KSh28.49 per litre.
The adjustment is likely to place additional pressure on households that depend on kerosene for cooking and lighting, particularly those already struggling with food prices and other essential expenses.
The increase comes as consumers remain sensitive to changes in fuel prices because of their influence on household budgets and the wider cost of living.
New Fuel Prices Take Effect October 15
The latest EPRA price schedule will apply from October 15 to November 14, 2026, setting the maximum amounts dealers can charge consumers in Nairobi during the period.
The review comes amid continued public scrutiny of fuel prices and their impact on Kenya’s economy.
Petroleum products influence transport fares, production and distribution expenses, and the cost of some electricity generation, meaning changes at the pump can have consequences well beyond motorists.
