Kenya’s Transport Sector Faces Severe Fuel Shortages
Kenya’s transport industry is warning of a growing fuel shortage that is disrupting trucking operations across the country.
The Kenya Transporters Association (KTA) has formally requested urgent action from regulators and oil marketers. In a letter dated 8 April, KTA addressed the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), and all Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), urging immediate intervention.
The association reports that truck operators are frequently turned away from filling stations or forced to buy fuel in small amounts across multiple locations, making long-distance transport increasingly difficult. Eldoret has been severely affected, with over 20 stations closed, while Machakos, Embu, Isiolo, Nanyuki, Mombasa, and Nairobi are experiencing long queues and intermittent closures.
The shortage has also created financial pressure for transporters, as many OMCs have withdrawn credit facilities, requiring cash payments for fuel. For businesses already operating on tight margins, this sudden change has intensified the crisis.
KTA stated, “Over the past several days, transporters across the country have reported widespread fuel rationing, refusal by marketers to supply in bulk, and a complete withdrawal of credit facilities.”
The association emphasised that official assurances of adequate supply have not matched conditions on the ground. KTA is seeking clarification on whether the disruptions are caused by supply constraints, hoarding, or market manipulation. It insists that, if national reserves are sufficient, fuel availability must be reflected consistently in the market.
The association has called for transparent reporting of stock levels and concrete measures to restore regular supply. The shortages, currently affecting at least 13 counties, highlight vulnerabilities in Kenya’s fuel distribution system amid ongoing volatility in global energy markets.
Analysts warn that prolonged disruption could impact trade, food supply chains, and regional transport networks, given Kenya’s role as a key logistics hub in East Africa.
KTA has urged regulators to compel OMCs to resume bulk fuel supply and reinstate credit arrangements for verified transport operators. The association warns that without these measures, the crisis could deepen.
