A nationwide transport sector strike is set to begin from midnight on Monday after stakeholders across Kenya’s transport industry unanimously agreed to suspend operations in protest over soaring fuel prices.
In a joint statement released on Sunday, the Transport Sector Alliance confirmed that vehicles affiliated with participating associations would remain off the roads as part of what leaders described as one of the largest coordinated industrial actions in the country’s history.
According to the alliance, the strike has attracted support from nearly every major transport subsector in Kenya, including passenger service vehicles, cargo transporters, logistics companies, ride-hailing operators, boda boda associations, tourism transport providers, school buses, driving schools and private motorists.
“Following a high-level consultative meeting held today, Sunday, 17th May 2026, all stakeholders in Kenya’s transport sector have unanimously reaffirmed that no vehicle shall move starting midnight today. The nationwide Transport Sector Fuel Strike scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026, is fully on,” part of the statement read.
The alliance further declared that the coordinated action had a “99 per cent success rate” due to the widespread support it has received from industry players and ordinary Kenyans frustrated by the increasing cost of living.
Major Transport Associations Back Strike
Several influential transport groups have publicly endorsed the strike, among them the Federation of Public Transport Sector, the Matatu Owners Association, the Motorist Association of Kenya, the Truckers Association of Kenya, the Digital Taxi Association of Kenya and the Association of Bus Operators.
The organisations argued that rising fuel prices were negatively affecting every sector of the economy and placing unbearable pressure on ordinary citizens.
“This action is not only for transport operators, but for every Kenyan citizen. The ordinary mwananchi is the ultimate victim of high fuel prices, paying more for transport, food, electricity, and essential commodities,” the alliance stated.
The groups noted that support had extended beyond the transport industry, with farmers, small-scale traders, workers and consumers expressing solidarity with the demonstrations expected across towns and trading centres.
Fuel Price Hike Sparks Nationwide Outrage
The planned industrial action comes just days after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced sharp increases in fuel prices on May 14.
Petrol prices rose by Sh16.65 per litre while diesel increased by Sh46.29 per litre, triggering widespread public anger and concerns over the rising cost of living.
Transport operators argue that the latest adjustments have made it nearly impossible for businesses to operate profitably, warning that the ripple effects would lead to increased prices for food, electricity, public transport and other essential goods.
Many PSV operators had already hinted at fare hikes before the strike announcement, citing the unsustainable operating environment caused by high fuel costs.
Demands Presented by Transport Stakeholders
The alliance outlined several demands it wants addressed by the government before transport operations can resume normally.
Among the key demands are:
- Immediate reversal of the latest fuel price increase
- Reduction of petrol and diesel prices to approximately Sh152 per litre
- Standardisation of all petroleum products to match the current kerosene price of Sh152.78 per litre
- Resignation or dismissal of the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum
- Accountability over allegations of substandard fuel imports
- Measures to end recurring fuel shortages
The alliance is also pushing for major reforms in the country’s energy sector.
Stakeholders are demanding the disbandment of EPRA, restructuring of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya and revival of the Changamwe Oil Refinery to facilitate local processing of Turkana crude oil.
Additionally, the group criticised the current Government-to-Government fuel importation arrangement, insisting Kenya should return to a competitive free-market fuel procurement system.
“Enough is enough. Fuel is the lifeblood of the economy. When fuel prices rise beyond reason, the entire nation suffers,” the alliance said.
Kenyans Asked to Join Peaceful Demonstrations
Transport leaders have urged Kenyans from all walks of life to join peaceful demonstrations in solidarity with the strike.
Private motorists, business owners, farmers and workers have been encouraged to participate in protests within their towns and local communities to pressure authorities into reviewing fuel pricing policies.
The alliance maintained that all planned demonstrations would remain peaceful and constitutional.
If fully implemented, the strike is expected to significantly disrupt movement of people and goods across the country, affecting daily commuters, businesses, schools and supply chains.
Kenyans are now waiting to see whether the government will intervene before Monday morning to avert a major nationwide transport shutdown.