Fuel Shortage Bites as Matatu Fares Spike and Motorists Struggle Nationwide

A worsening fuel shortage is taking a heavy toll on Kenyan commuters, with transport costs rising sharply and motorists across the country scrambling to secure limited supplies.

On the busy Nakuru–Nairobi route, matatu fares have surged from Ksh450 to as high as Ksh700, as operators grapple with difficulties accessing fuel. Transport saccos attribute the steep increases to ongoing supply challenges, warning that the public transport sector is under intense strain.

Commuters Bear the Brunt

The fare hikes have left many passengers with limited options, forcing them to either dig deeper into their pockets or endure longer waiting times as fewer vehicles operate. Matatu operators say the situation is becoming unsustainable, with some vehicles being grounded due to lack of fuel.

Nationwide Shortage Triggers Desperation

Across the country, scenes of frustration and desperation are becoming increasingly common. Motorists in towns such as Karatina, Nyeri, and Kisumu have been forced to spend hours searching for fuel at stations that have either run dry or are rationing supplies.

In Nairobi, long queues have been reported along Mombasa Road, where motorists wait anxiously in hopes of refuelling.

Protests Erupt in Western Kenya

The crisis has also sparked unrest, particularly in Western Kenya, where boda boda riders have taken to the streets to protest what they claim is deliberate hoarding of fuel by some retailers. The riders argue that artificial shortages are worsening their already fragile livelihoods.

Warning Signs from Industry and Government

The situation has been further complicated by revelations from Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who disclosed the existence of an unauthorised 60,000-metric-tonne fuel consignment — a development that has raised fresh concerns about supply chain integrity.

Meanwhile, Martin Chomba, Chair of the Petroleum Outlets Association of Kenya, has warned that fuel prices could rise by between Ksh30 and Ksh60 per litre in the upcoming April 14 pricing review. If implemented, petrol prices could climb to as high as Ksh231.68 per litre, adding further pressure on consumers and businesses alike.

Uncertain Outlook

With supply constraints persisting and the prospect of higher fuel prices looming, the crisis shows little sign of easing. For now, commuters, motorists, and transport operators remain at the mercy of a volatile fuel market, as the country watches closely for intervention measures or relief.