18/05/2026
Full Fuel Costs Breakdown May/June Prices.
Q. What do you think is the cause of fuel price hike in Kenya?
A. I think Kenya needs a mix of short-term relief and long-term energy reforms. Right now, fuel prices are rising because of global oil prices, Middle East tensions, the weak shilling, and heavy taxes/levies on fuel. Kenya imports almost all its petroleum, so global shocks hit hard.
*Proposed solution*
1. Reduce fuel taxes and levies (fastest impact)
A large share of pump prices comes from taxes and levies — including VAT, excise duty, road maintenance, and petroleum-related levies. Recent breakdowns show taxes/levies make up a significant part of the final cost per litre, so lowering or suspending some charges could immediately reduce prices.
Challenge: Government depends on this revenue for roads, budgets, and public spending, so cutting taxes may create budget pressure unless spending is reduced elsewhere.
2. Use targeted subsidies during price shocks
The government can temporarily cushion consumers using funds such as the Petroleum Development Levy to absorb part of the increase when global oil prices spike. Kenya has used this approach before to soften sharp rises.
Challenge: Subsidies are expensive and can strain public finances if used for too long.
3. Strengthen the Kenyan shilling
Fuel is bought in US dollars. If the Kenyan shilling weakens, imported fuel becomes more expensive even if oil prices stay unchanged. Policies that improve exports, tourism, investment, and foreign currency reserves can help stabilise prices over time.
4. Improve transparency and reduce inefficiencies
Many Kenyans argue that reviewing levies, reducing wastage, and tackling corruption in procurement and transport logistics could lower unnecessary costs. Consumer groups have also called for audits and reviews of fuel-related charges.
5. Invest in alternatives to reduce dependence on fuel
Over the long term, cheaper and more reliable public transport, electric buses, better rail freight, and walkable cities can reduce the economy’s dependence on diesel and petrol. Public discussions in Kenya increasingly mention this as a long-term solution.
My balanced view: If Kenya wanted prices to fall quickly, the biggest lever is temporary reduction of taxes/levies plus targeted cushioning during global price spikes. But for lasting stability, the country also needs a stronger shilling, lower import dependence, and more efficient transport systems.