Government Assures Kenyans of Steady Fuel Supply Despite Global Market Volatility

BY ELIJAH WANYAMA

The government has assured Kenyans that the country has sufficient fuel stocks and does not anticipate any shortages despite ongoing volatility in the global oil market. Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the government is committed to ensuring uninterrupted access to petroleum products across the country.

Speaking during the State of the Oil Industry briefing in Nairobi, Wandayi said Kenya’s fuel supply chain remains stable and is capable of meeting current demand.He said the government is working closely with industry players to safeguard energy security and ensure the continuous availability of fuel.Wandayi dismissed concerns over a possible fuel shortage and said the country has adequate petroleum reserves to meet current consumption levels. He said the Ministry continues to closely monitor fuel stocks and distribution across the country.

The Cabinet Secretary acknowledged that fluctuations in global crude oil prices continue to influence local fuel prices. He said the government is implementing measures to cushion consumers from the effects of rising international energy costs. He cited tax-related measures, including VAT adjustments and other policy interventions, aimed at easing the burden on consumers while maintaining stability in the petroleum sector.The briefing brought together stakeholders from across the petroleum value chain to assess the performance of the sector and discuss strategies for strengthening Kenya’s fuel supply system.

The forum also reviewed the country’s preparedness to respond to changing global market conditions. Discussions focused on developments in the international oil market, fuel price trends, supply chain resilience, and the impact of exchange rate fluctuations on petroleum imports.Wandayi said historical trends show that Kenya’s fuel prices have fluctuated in recent years. Prices remained relatively stable in 2022 under the fuel subsidy programme before rising sharply in 2023 following subsidy reforms, tax changes, and elevated global oil prices. Prices declined in 2024 and fell further in 2025 as global oil prices moderated and the cost of imported petroleum products eased. He noted that renewed pressure in international oil markets has contributed to another upward adjustment in pump prices in 2026.

Despite the market dynamics, Wandayi assured Kenyans that the country has adequate fuel reserves and that there is no risk of supply disruption. He said the government will continue working with the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, oil marketing companies, and other stakeholders to maintain stable fuel supplies.He said protecting consumers remains a key priority and that the government will continue monitoring both local and international market developments to respond promptly to any emerging challenges in the petroleum sector.

As global energy markets remain uncertain, the government has called on Kenyans to remain calm, saying measures are in place to guarantee uninterrupted fuel supply while pursuing policies aimed at promoting price stability and strengthening the country’s long-term energy security.