April 15, 2026 — Transport operators and matatu saccos across the country have announced an immediate increase in fares following the latest fuel price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which takes effect at midnight.
The move follows a sharp rise in the cost of petroleum products for the April–May 2026 cycle, with diesel—widely used in public transport—recording the biggest increase and triggering higher operating costs across the sector.
In its review released on Tuesday, April 14, EPRA raises the price of Super Petrol by KSh 28.69 per litre and Diesel by KSh 40.30 per litre, while kerosene remains unchanged.
Following the adjustment, Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene will retail at KSh 206.97, KSh 206.84, and KSh 152.78 per litre, respectively, with the new prices taking effect from April 15 to May 14, 2026.
In response, the Kenya Transporters Association warns that the increase in diesel prices has significantly raised transport costs and cannot be absorbed by operators.
The association notes that diesel has surged by about KSh 40 per litre, translating to an estimated 24.5 per cent increase, a development it describes as a major shock to road freight operations.
According to KTA, fuel accounts for nearly 55 per cent of total operating costs in road transport, meaning any increase at the pump has an immediate impact on pricing. Using its internal analysis, the association estimates the latest hike has pushed overall transport costs up by 13 to 14 per cent.
“Members are advised that such a substantial rise in input costs cannot be absorbed sustainably. It is therefore necessary for all members to immediately review their cost structures and adjust transport rates accordingly,” the association states.
Operators are also urged to communicate openly with clients and partners to explain the fare adjustments and maintain service continuity.
On his part, Albert Karakacha says operators have already agreed to increase fares starting Wednesday, April 15.
“We have been consulting, and from tomorrow, we will push the prices for bus fares upwards. If you see the new prices, diesel has really gone up, and that is what we use most, so that has to go to the common mwananchi,” he says.
Meanwhile, EPRA indicates that despite the increases, the government has reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16 per cent to 13 per cent and deployed about KSh 6.2 billion from the Petroleum Development Levy to cushion consumers.