Kenyans are poised to experience even higher fuel costs in the upcoming months due to global factors impacting the sector, according to an announcement by Davis Chirchir, the Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary. Speaking before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Energy, Chirchir explained that the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has reduced global oil production by approximately 3.6 million barrels daily, affecting the availability and pricing of fuel. Additionally, he pointed to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict as another factor likely to drive up fuel prices.
Chirchir emphasized that the government has limited control over these circumstances, as they are influenced by Platt prices set by OPEC. He also noted that the removal of fuel subsidies, which was a decision made by the Kenya Kwanza administration, will contribute to the continuous rise in prices. This decision, Chirchir mentioned, was a result of an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The increase in fuel prices, particularly kerosene, has been substantial in recent months.
Chirchir mentioned efforts to negotiate lower freight and premium costs with international rail companies to mitigate the situation. His remarks echoed similar sentiments expressed by Moses Kuria, the Investments, Trade, and Industry counterpart, who warned the public to brace for even higher fuel prices in the coming months. Kuria projected a monthly increase of at least Ksh.10 until February of the following year.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) recently announced significant price hikes, with Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene all seeing substantial increases per litre. Consequently, Super Petrol in Nairobi will now be sold at Ksh.211.64, Diesel at Ksh.200.99, and Kerosene at Ksh.202.61 per litre.