CS Wandayi Blasts Oil Marketers, Orders Release of Fuel at EPRA Gazetted Prices

CS Wandayi Blasts Oil Marketers, Orders Release of Fuel at EPRA Gazetted Prices

The government has ordered oil marketing companies to immediately release any petroleum products being withheld, warning that fuel hoarding will attract severe penalties amid rising public anxiety over possible shortages.

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the country has adequate fuel reserves and dismissed claims of an imminent crisis, urging motorists and businesses to remain calm and avoid panic buying.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, March 25, Wandayi accused some fuel retailers of deliberately restricting supply in anticipation of future price increases, a move he described as exploitative and unlawful.

“We have noted with grave concern that some retailers are hoarding products with the intention of selling at higher prices. This is unacceptable, and we will take firm action against those found in violation,” he said.

The CS emphasised that all licensed marketers must maintain steady supply to the local market and strictly adhere to prices set by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). He warned that failure to comply could lead to sanctions, including suspension or revocation of operating licences.

Officials say the directive comes amid reports of long queues at some petrol stations and sporadic supply disruptions, which have fueled speculation about potential shortages linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Despite these concerns, Wandayi insisted there are no immediate plans to revise pump prices and reassured the public that supply chains remain intact.

“On the matter of pricing, we shall address it when the time comes. For now, I urge Kenyans not to engage in panic buying. We have adequate stocks, and the government will ensure continued supply,” he added.

The ministry also confirmed that Kenya’s government-to-government fuel procurement agreements remain operational, noting that key international suppliers have not indicated any disruption to deliveries.

Among the partners cited were Saudi Aramco, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, and Emirates National Oil Company — major players in the Gulf region that supply petroleum products to East Africa.

Energy analysts say these long-term agreements are designed to shield Kenya from market volatility by guaranteeing stable supply even during global disruptions.

The concerns have also spilled over into neighbouring countries. In Uganda, Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu similarly assured citizens that fuel supplies remain sufficient and warned oil companies against exploiting the situation to raise prices unjustifiably.

Uganda relies heavily on imports through the Port of Mombasa, making stability in Kenya’s supply chain critical for the broader region.

Officials in Kampala said the country currently holds enough fuel stocks to last at least 21 days, providing a buffer against short-term disruptions.

Current pump prices reflect regional variations, with petrol in Uganda selling at approximately KSh173 per litre and diesel at KSh164. In Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, EPRA’s latest pricing lists super petrol at KSh178.28 per litre, diesel at KSh166.54, and kerosene at KSh152.78.

Economists warn that any sustained supply disruptions or speculative hoarding could trigger inflationary pressure across multiple sectors, particularly transport and food distribution.

Consumer groups have welcomed the government’s firm stance but called for increased inspections and enforcement to ensure compliance at retail outlets nationwide.

As geopolitical tensions continue to ripple through global energy markets, authorities say vigilance will remain high to prevent market manipulation and protect consumers.

For now, officials maintain that there is no cause for alarm — provided oil marketers comply with regulations and the public refrains from panic-driven demand that could strain supply chains unnecessarily.

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CS Wandayi Blasts Oil Marketers, Orders Release of Fuel at EPRA Gazetted Prices