President William Ruto has announced a further Ksh.10 reduction in diesel prices in the upcoming June–July fuel pricing cycle as the government moves to ease pressure on transport operators and ordinary Kenyans struggling with the rising cost of living.
The announcement came after overnight consultations between the government and transport sector stakeholders following nationwide protests and strike threats triggered by soaring fuel prices.
According to the President, the additional diesel price cut is part of broader government efforts aimed at stabilizing fuel prices and protecting the economy from the impact of the ongoing global fuel crisis.
“I have directed that in the next pricing cycle, we are going to further reduce the prices of diesel by Ksh.10,” President Ruto said during a meeting with transport leaders in Mombasa.
Diesel Prices Expected to Drop Further
Once the new adjustment takes effect, diesel prices in Nairobi are expected to fall to around Ksh.222.86 per litre while Super Petrol will remain at approximately Ksh.214.25 per litre. Kerosene prices are expected to remain above Ksh.191 per litre.
The latest move follows recent fuel price reviews by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which had already adjusted prices after public pressure and concerns from transport operators.
Government officials say the diesel reduction is intended to lower transport costs and reduce pressure on businesses that rely heavily on fuel.
Talks Follow Nationwide Transport Strike
The announcement came shortly after matatu operators and transport workers staged protests and threatened nationwide disruptions over rising diesel prices.
Public transport operators argued that the increase in fuel costs had made business unsustainable, forcing many operators to raise fares or reduce services.
The strike caused major disruptions in Nairobi and other towns earlier this week, with commuters stranded as matatus stayed off the roads in some areas. Clashes between protesters and police were also reported during demonstrations linked to the fuel crisis.
Following discussions with President Ruto, transport leaders agreed to suspend the strike and allow further negotiations with the government.
Government Defends Fuel Stabilization Measures
The government says the current fuel crisis has largely been caused by rising global oil prices and supply disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.
President Ruto stated that the administration has already spent billions of shillings through fuel stabilization programs aimed at cushioning consumers from even higher pump prices.
Officials also defended the decision to reduce Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16 percent to 8 percent in recent months to help lower fuel prices.
According to the government, without subsidies and tax adjustments, fuel prices would be significantly higher than current rates.
Additional Support for Transport Operators
Beyond fuel price reductions, President Ruto announced additional interventions targeting the transport sector.
The President directed the Ministry of Transport to engage financial institutions and banks to provide cheaper loans for matatu owners struggling with operational costs.
He also ordered reforms within the insurance sector after transport operators complained about delayed compensation and expensive claims processes.
“There is a big issue about transport operators, despite having insurance coverage, ending up paying bills when incidents occur,” Ruto said.
The government says amendments to insurance laws could be introduced within the next three months to improve accountability among insurers.
Mixed Reactions From Kenyans
The latest diesel price reduction announcement has triggered mixed reactions among Kenyans.
Some citizens welcomed the move, saying it could help reduce transport fares and ease pressure on businesses affected by expensive fuel.
However, others argued that the reduction remains too small compared to the recent sharp increase in diesel prices.
Economic analysts also warned that continued fuel subsidies could place more pressure on Kenya’s public finances if global oil prices remain high for a long period.
Opposition leaders and critics have continued demanding broader reforms to address the rising cost of living and reduce dependence on imported fuel.
Fuel Crisis Continues Affecting Economy
The ongoing fuel crisis has affected several sectors across Kenya, including transport, food supply, manufacturing, and small businesses.
Higher fuel costs have pushed up transport fares and commodity prices, increasing pressure on households already struggling with inflation and unemployment.
Business owners and farmers have also complained about rising operational expenses linked to transportation and logistics.
The government, however, insists its interventions are helping prevent a deeper economic crisis while ensuring Kenya maintains stable fuel supplies.
What Happens Next?
Kenyans are now waiting for the next official fuel pricing review by EPRA to confirm the new diesel prices announced by President Ruto.
Transport operators hope the reduction will lower operational costs and help stabilize fares for commuters.
Meanwhile, the government says it will continue monitoring global fuel markets and introducing measures where necessary to protect consumers from further economic pressure.
As fuel prices remain a major national concern, many Kenyans are hoping the latest intervention will bring meaningful relief to households and businesses across the country.
