EPRA has ignited a public backlash after announcing a steep increase in fuel prices, with diesel climbing by about KSh 40 and petrol by nearly KSh 28.
In the review published on 15 April 2026, the regulator confirmed that diesel and super petrol had risen by KSh 40.30 and KSh 28.69 per litre respectively, setting off a wave of outrage across Kenyan social media. Acting Director General Joseph Oketch maintained that the government had reduced VAT to cushion consumers, though the explanation did little to pacify an already irate public.
The new prices, which took effect at midnight on April 15, now see Nairobi motorists paying roughly KSh 206.97 for petrol and KSh 206.84 for diesel, while kerosene remains unchanged. EPRA linked the hike to a sharp increase in global fuel costs, citing a dramatic jump in landed prices between February and March 2026.
Also Read: EPRA Raises Petrol Prices By Sh28.69, Diesel By Sh40.30 Per Litre
Even with VAT reduced from 16% to 13% and about KSh 6.2 billion released from the Petroleum Development Levy to steady prices, Kenyans were hardly convinced. Social media platforms quickly turned into a pressure cooker of frustration, sarcasm, and political jabs. Some users accused the government of burdening ordinary citizens while scandals linger unresolved, while others questioned why fuel taxes and levies were not scrapped entirely.
A number of reactions were blunt and cutting. One user dismissed the move as sheer incompetence with a curt “kwendeni huko,” while another warned that businesses, particularly in construction, would inevitably pass on the higher costs to consumers. Others hinted at possible protests, arguing that such price levels were unsustainable, while a few resorted to dark humour, suggesting the country was “headed in the right direction” despite the obvious strain.
The general mood online was unmistakable. irritation, disbelief, and a simmering sense that tougher economic days lie ahead.
