Fuel Hoarding Crackdown as Govt Issues Stern Warning
The Kenyan government has issued a strong directive to oil marketing companies to immediately and unconditionally release any petroleum products being withheld, warning that fuel hoarding will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Speaking on Wednesday, March 25, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi sought to calm a growing wave of concern among Kenyans over a potential fuel shortage, assuring the public that the country has sufficient reserves to meet demand.
Government Dismisses Fuel Shortage Fears
Wandayi firmly dismissed speculation of a looming fuel crisis, urging citizens to remain calm and avoid panic buying. According to the CS, Kenya currently holds adequate petroleum stocks, and there is no immediate threat to supply.
He emphasized that panic buying could create artificial shortages, worsening the situation unnecessarily.
“We have adequate stocks, and the government will ensure continued supply,” Wandayi stated.
This reassurance comes amid rising anxiety across major towns, where motorists had begun expressing fears of possible supply disruptions.
Oil Marketers Accused of Deliberate Hoarding
In a sharp rebuke, Wandayi accused a section of oil marketers and retailers of deliberately withholding fuel in anticipation of future price increases.
The CS termed the move exploitative and a direct violation of licensing conditions, warning that the government will not hesitate to take legal action against those involved.
“We have noted with grave concern that some retailers are hoarding products with the intention of selling at higher prices. This is unacceptable,” he said.
Authorities believe that some dealers may be attempting to capitalize on expected price adjustments by restricting supply now and selling later at higher margins.
Strict Compliance with EPRA Pricing Rules
The government has also reiterated that all licensed oil marketers must comply strictly with pricing regulations set by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Wandayi warned that any violations, including selling above the gazetted prices or withholding supply, could result in severe regulatory action. These include suspension or even revocation of operating licenses.
Currently, fuel prices in Nairobi stand at:
- Super Petrol: Ksh178.28 per litre
- Diesel: Ksh166.54 per litre
- Kerosene: Ksh152.78 per litre
The CS further clarified that there are no immediate plans to review pump prices, easing concerns that an increase could be imminent.
Stable Supply from International Partners
The Ministry of Energy also reassured Kenyans that international supply chains remain stable. Kenya’s government-to-government fuel import agreements with major global suppliers are still intact.
These include partnerships with:
- Saudi Aramco
- Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
- Emirates National Oil Company
According to Wandayi, none of these partners has indicated any disruption in supply, reinforcing confidence in continued fuel availability.
Regional Perspective: Uganda Also Assures Stability
In neighboring Uganda, Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu also moved to calm public fears, confirming that the country has enough fuel stocks to last at least 21 days.
Uganda, which heavily depends on imports through the Port of Mombasa, echoed Kenya’s stance by warning oil companies against exploiting the situation.
Fuel prices in Uganda currently stand at:
- Petrol: Approximately Ksh173 per litre
- Diesel: Approximately Ksh164 per litre
Government Urges Calm Amid Rising Tensions
The latest directive signals a firm stance by the government to stabilize the market and prevent artificial shortages driven by speculation and profiteering.
Kenyans are being urged to remain calm, avoid panic buying, and report any suspicious practices by fuel retailers.
With regulators on high alert and international supply lines stable, authorities insist there is no cause for alarm—only a need for compliance and responsible market behavior.