EPRA Adjusts Fuel Prices Amid Public Transport Protests
On May 19 2026 the Kenya Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced a revision of pump prices for diesel, kerosene and premium petrol. The changes took effect immediately and will remain in place for the next 30 days.
Price Changes at a Glance
- Diesel price reduced by KSh 10.06 per litre.
- Kerosene price increased by KSh 38.60 per litre.
- Premium (super) petrol price remained unchanged.
In Nairobi the new retail prices are:
- Super Petrol: KSh 214.25 per litre
- Diesel: KSh 232.86 per litre
- Kerosene: KSh 191.38 per litre
[1]
Background: Protests and Public Safety Concerns
The adjustment follows a wave of nationwide demonstrations by public service vehicle (PSV) operators on Monday, May 18 2026. Protesters cited escalating fuel costs as a primary grievance. According to police reports, the unrest resulted in:
- Four fatalities
- Thirty injuries
- Three hundred and forty‑eight arrests
[2]
Operators argued that the widening gap between diesel and kerosene prices created incentives for fuel adulteration, posing safety risks for both vehicles and passengers.
EPRA’s Response and Rationale
In a press statement EPRA said it had received a formal petition from PSV organisations requesting interventions to curb adulteration linked to the price disparity. The authority explained that the diesel reduction and kerosene increase were calibrated to narrow that gap while keeping overall fuel costs stable for consumers.
EPRA emphasized that the adjustments were based on:
- Latest international crude oil benchmarks
- Domestic refining margins
- Tax and levy considerations
- Feedback from stakeholder consultations
[3]
Implications for Consumers and the Transport Sector
Short‑Term Effects
Motorists using diesel will see a modest relief at the pump, while kerosene users—common in households and small‑scale businesses—will face a higher cost. Premium petrol prices remain steady, offering predictability for private car owners.
Longer‑Term Considerations
By addressing the diesel‑kerosene price differential, EPRA aims to reduce the temptation to mix fuels, which can damage engines and increase emissions. Transport operators may benefit from lower operating costs on diesel routes, potentially stabilising fare structures.
Conclusion
EPRA’s latest fuel price review reflects a balancing act between responding to public pressure, maintaining market stability, and safeguarding fuel integrity. The adjustments, effective for a 30‑day window, will be monitored closely; further revisions may follow depending on global oil trends and domestic stakeholder input.
References
- [1] Kenya Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority. “EPRA Announces Fuel Price Adjustments Effective 19 May 2026.” Press release, 19 May 2026.
- [2] Kenya Police Service. “Report on Public Transport Protests, 18 May 2026.” Internal bulletin, 20 May 2026.
- [3] EPRA. “Stakeholder Consultation Notes on Diesel‑Kerosene Price Differential.” Meeting minutes, 15 May 2026.
