Kenyans Brace for Higher Fuel Prices as EPRA Announces Shocking Hike
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced an increase in fuel prices for the January-February cycle. This adjustment marks the first hike in months, sparking concerns among Kenyans already grappling with a high cost of living.
What’s Changing in Fuel Prices?
Effective January 15 to February 14, 2025, the prices for super petrol, diesel, and kerosene will increase. Super petrol will rise by Sh0.29 per litre, diesel by Sh2 per litre, and kerosene by Sh3 per litre.
Here’s how the new prices will look in key cities:
- Super Petrol: Sh173.43 (Mombasa), Sh176.58 (Nairobi), Sh175.80 (Nakuru), Sh176.62 (Eldoret and Kisumu).
- Diesel: Sh168.82 (Mombasa), Sh167.06 (Nairobi), Sh166.63 (Nakuru), Sh167.45 (Eldoret), Sh167.44 (Kisumu).
- Kerosene: Sh151.82 (Kisumu and Eldoret), Sh151.01 (Nakuru), Sh151.39 (Nairobi), Sh148.15 (Mombasa).
EPRA’s Justification
EPRA explained that the increases reflect adjustments in excise duty, VAT, and inflation rates, aligning with the Finance Act 2023 and the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2024.
“The maximum allowed petroleum pump prices for super petrol, diesel, and kerosene increased by Sh0.29/litre, Sh2.00/litre, and Sh3.00/litre respectively,” EPRA noted in its statement.
The regulator also revealed changes in the average landed costs of imported fuel. While super petrol saw a slight decrease of 0.14%, diesel increased by 0.06%, and kerosene dropped by 1.62%.
Why It Matters
EPRA emphasized that the Petroleum Pricing Regulations aim to balance fair consumer prices with recovery of importation costs.
“The purpose of the regulations is to cap retail prices of petroleum products already in the country,” EPRA explained.
This rise comes after a series of decreases in late 2024. December’s prices dropped by Sh4.37 for super petrol, while diesel and kerosene fell by Sh3 each. The steepest drop occurred in October-November, with super petrol slashed by Sh8.18 per litre.
Public Reaction and Outlook
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Many Kenyans are questioning the timing of the increase amid economic struggles. Others are concerned that higher fuel costs will drive up transport and commodity prices, further straining household budgets.
With fuel prices a critical factor in Kenya’s economy, the January-February cycle signals a challenging period ahead. Consumers and businesses will closely monitor any future changes as EPRA continues to review global and local market trends.
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Kenyans Brace for Higher Fuel Prices as EPRA Announces Shocking Hike
