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Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has attributed the recent increase in fuel prices in Kenya to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, saying disruptions in the global energy market have significantly raised the cost of importing petroleum products.
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In a statement on the fuel price review covering May 15 to June 14, 2026, Wandayi said the conflict has unsettled international oil markets, resulting in higher crude prices, increased freight charges, insurance premiums, and overall supply chain costs.
“The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum noted that Kenya, as a net importer of petroleum products, remains heavily exposed to global market shocks,” he said.
Ministry data shows that the landed cost of Super Petrol rose by about 10 percent between March and April 2026, while diesel recorded an increase of more than 20 percent over the same period.
To reduce the impact on consumers, the government has injected around Sh5 billion through the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) stabilization mechanism to moderate the rise in diesel and kerosene prices.
The government also maintained kerosene prices at current levels to shield low-income households that rely on it for daily use.
Wandayi added that the government is in discussions with stakeholders across the energy, transport, manufacturing, and business sectors to explore long-term solutions aimed at easing the burden of rising fuel costs on consumers and the economy.
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He further stated that the government is closely monitoring global oil market trends while ensuring steady and uninterrupted fuel supply across the country.
The Ministry also defended the Government-to-Government fuel importation arrangement, saying it has helped cushion Kenya from soaring global freight and insurance costs, especially amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
