In a statement on March 14, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority set the new price of petrol at Sh179.30 per litre in Nairobi, an increase of 2%.
EPRA announces increase in fuel price
EPRA has announced an increase in the price of petrol in Kenya.
A pump attendant fills a car with fuel at the OlA petrol station, following country wide price hikes on March 15, 2022, in Nairobi. (Photo by SIMON MAINA/AFP via Getty Images)
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This news comes as a blow to many Kenyans who are already struggling with high living costs.
EPRA has cited the need to continue subsidizing diesel and kerosene consumers as the reason for the increase in the price of petrol.
While the prices of diesel and kerosene have remained unchanged at Sh162 and Sh145.94 per litre, respectively, in Nairobi, the increase in petrol prices are expected have a ripple effect on the prices of goods and services across the country.
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Diesel is a crucial component of Kenya's economy as it is used for transportation, powering machinery, and for electricity generation.
EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo
Pulse Live Kenya
On Monday, March 13, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary David Chirchir announced Kenya had signed a deal with Dubai and Saudi Arabia to purchase fuel on a government-to-government deal.
Under the deal, Saudi Aramco will supply diesel, while the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company will supply super.
Saudi Aramco, which is controlled by the Saudi government, is the world's largest oil firm, with significant operations in Asia, Europe, and North America.
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This system will allow oil marketing companies to buy petroleum products in Kenyan shillings through a credit system for a period of six months.
Easing pressure on the US dollar
The deal signed between Kenya and the two countries aims to ease pressure on the local currency and ensure that fuel retails at lower prices.
Chirchir explained that the products will be paid in Kenyan shillings, rather than in US dollars, which will help relieve the pressure on the dollar.
Energy CS Davis Chirchir and Chairperson of Ruto's Council of Economic Advisors David Ndii during a press briefing on March 14, 2023
Pulse Live Kenya
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This will ensure that dollars are available for other industries such as manufacturing and food security, which rely on imports or exports.
Kenya has been spending approximately $500 million every month to import fuel, which has been straining the demand for the greenback.
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