EPRA Increases April-May Super Petrol & Diesel Prices

EPRA Increases April-May Super Petrol & Diesel Prices

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced a sharp increase in fuel prices for the April–May 2026 cycle, ending weeks of anticipation and placing additional pressure on households and businesses already grappling with a high cost of living.

In its latest fuel pricing review released on Tuesday, April 14, the regulator confirmed that the maximum retail price of Super Petrol has increased by Ksh28.69 per litre, while Diesel has risen by Ksh40.30 per litre. The price of Kerosene, however, remains unchanged.

Following the adjustment, Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene will now retail at Ksh206.97, Ksh206.84, and Ksh152.78 per litre respectively, effective from midnight. The new prices will remain in force for 30 days, running from April 15 to May 14, 2026.

“The calculated maximum retail prices of petroleum products will be in force from April 15 to May 14, 2026,” EPRA stated in its official announcement.

The latest review reflects significant pressure from global oil markets, with EPRA attributing the increase to a surge in international petroleum costs. According to the regulator, the average landed cost of imported Super Petrol rose sharply by 41.53 per cent, from Ksh75,266.82 per cubic metre in December 2025 to Ksh106,526.39 in January 2026.

Diesel and Kerosene recorded even steeper increases, with Diesel rising by 68.72 per cent and Kerosene surging by 105.15 per cent over the same period, underscoring the volatility in global energy markets.

Despite the steep rise, the government has introduced measures aimed at cushioning consumers. EPRA disclosed that the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products has been reduced from 16 per cent to 13 per cent in a bid to ease the burden on consumers.

In addition, the government will tap into the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) Fund, deploying approximately Ksh6.2 billion to stabilise pump prices.

“The Government will further cushion the consumers through the Petroleum Development Levy Fund by utilising approximately Ksh6.2 billion to stabilise the pump prices,” EPRA noted.

The regulator also clarified that fuel delivered by One Petroleum via the MT Paloma tanker has not been factored into the current pricing structure, in line with earlier government directives.

“We wish to reiterate that… the Super Petrol delivered by One Petroleum ex MT Paloma has not been included in the computation of the applicable prices,” the authority stated.

Across the country, motorists will experience varying price levels depending on location. In Mombasa, Super Petrol will retail at Ksh203.69 per litre, Diesel at Ksh203.56, and Kerosene at Ksh149.49.

Meanwhile, in Nakuru and Kisumu, Super Petrol will retail at Ksh206.03 and Ksh206.85 respectively, while Diesel prices will stand at Ksh206.25 and Ksh207.06 per litre over the same period.

The increase comes despite earlier assurances from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum that the country has sufficient fuel reserves, which had initially raised expectations among consumers that prices might stabilise or even decline.

Instead, the latest review signals a significant cost escalation, with economists warning of a ripple effect across the economy. Higher fuel prices are expected to drive up transportation costs, which in turn could lead to increased prices for goods and services.

Industry analysts note that fuel remains a critical input across multiple sectors, meaning sustained price increases could impact inflation, business operations, and household spending.

For many Kenyans, the adjustment represents yet another financial strain, particularly as the country navigates broader economic challenges. As the new prices take effect, attention will now shift to how businesses and consumers adapt to the rising cost environment and whether further interventions may be introduced in the coming months.

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EPRA Increases April-May Super Petrol & Diesel Prices