The government has moved to allay public fears of an imminent fuel price increase following escalating tensions in the Middle East that have raised concerns over global oil supply stability.
In a statement dated March 3, 2026, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the government had reviewed the country’s fuel supply and stock levels amid rising uncertainty linked to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
“In light of the escalating tensions in the Middle East region where our petroleum products supply is sourced, the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has reviewed the supply and stock situation and wishes to advise as follows,” read part of the statement.
According to the Ministry, Kenya currently has sufficient fuel stocks to meet both domestic and regional demand. It further assured that scheduled imports are secured up to the end of April 2026, guaranteeing continued supply despite the volatile global environment.
“We are closely monitoring the fluid situation as it evolves while engaging with our government-to-government suppliers for contingency planning,” the statement added.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring stability in the energy sector, emphasizing that it remains vigilant and ready to take necessary measures to prevent any disruption in fuel availability.
“We wish to assure the public and all stakeholders that the Ministry remains alert and shall continue taking necessary actions to ensure there is an uninterrupted supply. The Ministry undertakes to keep the country sufficiently updated,” said CS Wandayi.
CS Mbadi Warns of Possible Higher Fuel Prices
The Energy CS’s statement came just hours after Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi cautioned that global oil prices could rise sharply if tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate.
Appearing before a parliamentary committee on March 2, 2026, Mbadi warned that the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel poses a “severe threat” to global oil supply chains, which could translate into higher fuel prices locally.
He highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz—a key shipping route that handles about 20% of global oil flows—warning that any closure or disruption could trigger a surge in international crude prices.
“As a net importer of petroleum, Kenya is highly vulnerable to these geopolitical tremors,” Mbadi said, noting that any increase in global oil prices would inevitably cascade down to local pump prices in Nairobi and other parts of the country.
The government’s twin statements underscore growing concern over the potential economic ripple effects of the Middle East conflict, even as authorities seek to reassure the public of adequate fuel reserves and proactive contingency measures.
