CS Opiyo Wandayi Breaks Silence On Fears Of Fuel Shortage In Kenya

Energy and Petroleum CS Opiyo Wandayi has assured motorists and other fuel consumers that Kenya continues to have steady supply of petroleum products despite uncertainty in international oil markets.

His comments come at a time when there are worries that instability in Middle East might disrupt shipments, adding further strain to fuel prices, which could impact transport operators, businesses, and households.

While speaking in Kisumu on Monday, October 19, Wandayi credited the ongoing fuel availability in the country to a government-to-government (G-to-G) importation arrangement.

He stated that this strategy has allowed Kenya to maintain its fuel supplies in the face of international challenges.

He emphasized that since the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States erupted in February, the country has not faced a single day without fuel available at stations.

However, he also noted that the global situation continues to exert pressure on prices, with some factors affecting pump costs lying beyond the government’s immediate control.

Wandayi mentioned that the government is actively working on strategies to shield consumers from the impacts of rising international oil prices.

One key measure he pointed out is the reduction of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16% to 8%.

He indicated that Parliament has approved extending this lowered rate for another 90 days to lessen the financial burden on consumers.

Additionally, the government is utilizing funds from the Petroleum Development Levy to help stabilize prices amid fluctuations in the global market.

Wandayi assured that authorities would keep a close eye on ongoing developments and continue to implement measures to protect consumers while ensuring a steady supply of fuel.

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