Kenyans are set to experience relief at the pump after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced a reduction in fuel prices following direct intervention by President William Ruto.
The development comes just hours after public uproar over a sharp increase in fuel costs, particularly diesel, which had risen by nearly KSh 40 per litre.
The spike triggered widespread concern among motorists, businesses, and consumers already grappling with a high cost of living.
Speaking during a public engagement in Kisii County, President Ruto acknowledged the burden placed on Kenyans and assured the nation that urgent measures would be taken to cushion citizens from the rising prices.
His remarks appear to have prompted swift action from the government and relevant agencies.
In a statement shared by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, EPRA confirmed that the price adjustment follows a revision of the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate on petroleum products. The change, effected under Legal Notice No. 70 dated April 15, 2026, lowers VAT from 13 percent to 8 percent.
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“Accordingly, we have recalculated the maximum retail pump prices that will be in force from 16th April 2026 to 14th May 2026 taking into account this revised Value Added Tax rates,” the statement read in part.
As a result of the tax revision, the pump price per litre in Nairobi has decreased significantly. Super Petrol has dropped by KSh 9.37 per litre, while Diesel has reduced by KSh 10.21 per litre. Kerosene prices, however, remain unchanged.
Following the adjustment, motorists in Nairobi will now pay KSh 197.60 per litre for Super Petrol, KSh 196.63 per litre for Diesel, and KSh 152.78 per litre for Kerosene.
EPRA also noted that the subsidy on kerosene has been revised downward, dropping from KSh 108.10 per litre to KSh 96.56 per litre. The move reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to balance consumer relief with fiscal sustainability.
The latest announcement is expected to ease pressure on households and businesses, particularly in the transport and manufacturing sectors, which heavily rely on diesel.
However, analysts warn that fuel prices remain sensitive to global oil market fluctuations, meaning future adjustments cannot be ruled out.
For now, the reduction offers a temporary reprieve, with many Kenyans hoping for longer-term solutions to stabilize energy costs in the country.
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