Commuters across Kenya are bracing for tougher days ahead after public transport operators announced a sharp increase in fares following the latest fuel price hike.
The Matatu Owners Association confirmed that fares will rise by 30 percent starting April 15, a move expected to significantly impact daily commuters who rely on matatus for transport.
Fuel Price Surge Triggers Fare Hike
Association chairman Albert Karakacha said the decision was unavoidable, citing the rising cost of fuel as the main driver behind the increase.
“Fuel is a major component in our daily operations. With the new prices, we cannot sustain current fares,” Karakacha stated.
The announcement came shortly after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority released its latest fuel price review on April 14.
In the review, EPRA raised the price of super petrol by Sh28.69 per litre and diesel by Sh40.30 per litre, while kerosene prices remained unchanged.
New Fuel Prices in Effect
Following the adjustment, fuel prices have reached record highs, further straining households and businesses:
- Super Petrol: Sh206.97 per litre
- Diesel: Sh206.84 per litre
- Kerosene: Sh152.78 per litre
These new rates will remain in effect from April 15 to May 14, 2026.
The sharp increase in diesel prices—critical for public transport and logistics—has been particularly impactful, pushing operators to pass on the costs to consumers.
Commuters Feel the Pressure
The fare increase is expected to hit thousands of Kenyans who depend on matatus for their daily commute to work, school, and business.
For many households already grappling with a high cost of living, the additional transport expense will stretch budgets even further.
Morning and evening peak fares are likely to rise the most, with some routes expected to see even higher adjustments depending on distance and demand.
Transport Sector Under Strain
Transport operators argue that the fare hike is necessary to keep their businesses running amid rising operational costs.
Fuel accounts for a significant portion of expenses in the matatu sector, alongside maintenance, insurance, and licensing fees.
With diesel prices increasing sharply, operators say maintaining previous fare levels would result in unsustainable losses.
The Kenya Transporters Association has also raised alarm over the situation, noting a steep rise in operating expenses.
In its advisory issued on April 14, the association reported that diesel prices have surged by approximately Sh40 per litre—from Sh163 to Sh203—representing a 24.5 percent increase.
Ripple Effect on Cost of Living
The impact of rising fuel prices extends beyond transport fares.
Higher fuel costs often lead to increased prices of goods and services, as transportation is a key component in supply chains.
From food distribution to manufacturing, businesses are likely to adjust prices to offset increased logistics expenses, further driving up the cost of living.
Public Concern Grows
The sudden fare hike has sparked concern among commuters, many of whom are already struggling with rising expenses.
Some passengers fear that the increase could lead to reduced mobility, especially for low-income earners who rely heavily on affordable public transport.
Others worry about the unpredictability of fares, as matatu operators may adjust prices further depending on fuel trends and demand.
Balancing Survival and Affordability
While operators defend the move as necessary for survival, the burden ultimately falls on passengers.
This ongoing tension highlights the delicate balance between sustaining transport businesses and ensuring affordability for the public.
Calls are now growing for government intervention, including possible subsidies or policy measures to cushion both operators and commuters from the impact of rising fuel prices.
What Lies Ahead
As the new fuel prices take effect, Kenyans are likely to feel the impact almost immediately in their daily expenses.
With no immediate relief in sight, the situation underscores the broader economic challenges facing the country.
For now, commuters must adjust to higher fares, while operators continue to navigate the rising cost of doing business in an increasingly volatile fuel market.