Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi today moved to reassure Kenyans over the continued rise in fuel prices, stating that the government is actively implementing measures aimed at easing pressure on households, businesses, and the wider economy.
During a press briefing held amid growing concern over the cost of living, Mbadi acknowledged the financial strain caused by increasing petrol and diesel prices, noting that the effects are being felt across transport, food distribution, and other essential sectors.
He explained that the latest fuel price increases are largely a result of global market developments, including ongoing geopolitical tensions that have disrupted international oil supply chains and pushed up crude oil prices worldwide. According to the CS, Kenya remains vulnerable to these external shocks because it relies heavily on imported petroleum products.
Mbadi emphasized that despite the difficult global environment, the government has continued to intervene through fuel stabilisation efforts designed to cushion consumers from steeper increases. He said substantial resources have already been committed toward maintaining relative price stability and ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply across the country.
He noted that without the government’s intervention measures, fuel prices would likely be considerably higher than the current pump rates.
The Treasury CS also disclosed that further consultations are ongoing within government to evaluate additional options that could help reduce pressure on consumers if international prices continue to rise. He stated that authorities are carefully balancing public relief measures with the need to maintain fiscal and economic stability.
Mbadi clarified that fuel pricing in Kenya follows a structured review process managed by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which considers international oil prices, exchange rates, taxes, and importation costs before announcing new pump prices.
He urged the public to remain calm and avoid panic buying or speculation, assuring Kenyans that the country currently has sufficient fuel stocks and that supply remains stable.
The CS acknowledged that the transport and logistics sectors have been among the hardest hit by rising diesel costs, leading to increased transport fares and higher operational expenses that are now affecting the prices of goods and services across the economy.
On taxation, Mbadi defended the retention of certain fuel levies, saying they remain important in supporting road maintenance and infrastructure development projects nationwide. However, he assured Kenyans that the government is continuously reviewing available options to strike a balance between revenue needs and public relief.
He further called for responsible public discourse around the issue, urging leaders to avoid politicising the fuel situation and instead support efforts aimed at protecting economic stability during a challenging global period.
Mbadi concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to monitoring the situation closely and pursuing practical solutions that will help ease the burden on citizens while safeguarding the country’s long-term economic resilience.
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