MWE Correspondent
A nationwide transport strike by Kenya’s minibus operators has been followed by sharp adjustments in fuel prices, deepening public concern over the rising cost of living and exposing growing tensions between transport workers, consumers, and regulators.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced a revision in pump prices on May 19, 2026, just a day after the country’s matatu operators staged a disruptive strike that brought public transport to a near standstill in several regions.
Under the new pricing structure, diesel has been reduced by KSh10.06 per litre, while petrol and kerosene prices have moved in opposite directions, with kerosene recording a significant increase of KSh38.60 per litre. The new prices will remain in effect until June 14, 2026.
The revised retail rates now place petrol at KSh214.25 per litre, diesel at KSh232.86 per litre, and kerosene at KSh191.38 per litre. The adjustments come at a time when households are already grappling with high inflation and transport disruptions that have strained daily economic activity.
Monday’s strike by matatu operators paralyzed transport services across key urban and rural corridors, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Many residents were forced to walk long distances to workplaces, schools, and markets as public transport vehicles remained off the roads.
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In the absence of normal transport services, boda boda riders and some private operators capitalized on the situation by significantly increasing fares, further intensifying the financial pressure on commuters already struggling with rising living costs.
The disruption triggered unrest in several areas, where frustrated residents blocked major roads and set tyres ablaze in protest. Security forces were deployed to restore order as tensions escalated in affected regions.
Analysts note that the back-to-back events—industrial action followed by fuel price adjustments—highlight the fragile balance between transport costs, fuel pricing policies, and public frustration. The developments are likely to keep pressure on authorities as citizens demand more stable and affordable transport solutions in the face of ongoing economic strain.
The situation continues to evolve as stakeholders in the transport and energy sectors monitor the impact of the latest changes on both commuters and the broader economy.
