September fuel prices: Why transport and household costs could rise despite EPRA freeze

Kenyan motorists and businesses will not face a new fuel price increase in September, thanks to a freeze by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). However, the price differences across various regions could lead to ongoing pressure on transport and distribution costs. EPRA maintains the maximum retail prices for Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene from September 15 to October 14, 2026.

While Nairobi and Mombasa have fixed prices, other markets such as Garissa, Meru, Kitui, Nyeri, Eldoret, Kisumu, Machakos, Nakuru, and Wajir have significantly different maximum prices. These price disparities can create additional costs for commercial vehicles, which rely heavily on diesel. For example, 100 litres of diesel would cost Ksh22,470 in Garissa, compared to Ksh21,458 in Mombasa, resulting in a Ksh1,012 difference.

This uneven pricing structure could lead to higher freight and distribution costs, eventually impacting consumer goods prices in regions where fuel prices are notably higher. The September freeze provides short-term stability but does not eradicate the regional price differences, which could persistently affect businesses and households depending on their reliance on road transport.