NAIROBI — Kenya’s transport sector has reported fuel supply constraints, citing disruptions along key logistics corridors despite government assurances that national stocks remain adequate.
The Kenya Transporters Association (KTA) said some transporters are experiencing rationing and limited access to fuel in bulk.
“Transporters across the country have reported widespread fuel rationing, refusal by marketers to supply in bulk, and a complete withdrawal of credit facilities,” KTA said.
The association added that the shift toward cash purchases is affecting operations.
“Drivers are now forced to purchase fuel in small quantities at multiple stations, increasing operational costs and disrupting logistics planning, particularly for long-haul distances.”
Kenyan authorities have maintained that the country holds sufficient fuel stocks, though KTA pointed to what it described as differences between official statements and conditions in the market.
Kenya relies on commercial stocks held by the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) and private oil marketers, which are required to maintain about 30 days of supply.
KPC’s system has storage capacity of about 1.14 billion litres, much of it linked to transit fuel destined for neighboring countries.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has cautioned oil marketing companies against hoarding or breaching wholesale price caps, noting preliminary findings that suggest possible supply withholding in anticipation of price changes.
The supply strains come amid broader turbulence in global oil markets linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have raised concerns over disruptions to shipments through key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.
The situation has coincided with recent changes in Kenya’s energy sector leadership, including the removal of senior officials, adding to uncertainty in the management and coordination of fuel supply.
KTA called for greater clarity on fuel stock levels and engagement among stakeholders.
“Urgent engagement between government, regulators, oil marketing companies and industry stakeholders is needed to restore normalcy, confidence and stability in the fuel supply chain,” it said.
The association also urged authorities to address “any artificial supply constraints, hoarding or market manipulation.”
The situation may have implications for the movement of goods and regional supply chains, given Kenya’s role as a key logistics hub for East Africa.
