Siaya Governor James Orengo James Orengo has sharply criticised the latest fuel price increases announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), warning that the move is placing an unbearable burden on Kenyan households. In a statement shared on his X account on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, Orengo called on EPRA to immediately publish the full Cost of Service Study and explain the reasoning behind recent phased margin changes in fuel pricing. “EPRA must immediately publish the full Cost of Service Study and explain the rationale behind these phased margin revisions that are being implemented in total darkness,” Orengo stated. He questioned why such a critical document, which directly affects fuel prices, transport costs and the cost of goods, has not been subjected to the same level of public participation and scrutiny as electricity tariffs. The governor further noted that the fuel price increase comes at a time when motorists are already grappling with concerns over fuel quality, including reports of contaminated or substandard fuel in parts of the country. According to Orengo, the current situation reflects deeper structural challenges within Kenya’s petroleum sector, where key decisions are made without sufficient transparency or public involvement. He warned that ordinary Kenyans—including motorists, commuters and households already struggling with the high cost of living—will bear the greatest impact of the rising fuel prices. Orengo also criticised what he described as opaque price-setting practices, arguing that they risk creating artificial inflation and inefficiencies that ultimately hurt consumers and slow economic productivity. To address the issue, the Siaya governor proposed a shift towards a more competitive, market-based pricing model, saying this would enhance efficiency, accountability and consumer protection. He urged policymakers to prioritise transparency and competition over administrative control, warning that public frustration is likely to grow if the rising cost of living is not urgently addressed.

Matatus in CBD Commuters across the country are set to face higher transport costs after the Matatu Owners Association announced a planned increase in bus fares starting Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Speaking during an interview with a local station on Tuesday night, Association President Albert Karakacha said the decision follows the latest fuel price hike, which has significantly raised operational costs for matatu operators. Karakacha noted that the fare adjustment is a direct response to the sharp increase in diesel prices, which rose by Ksh40 per litre in the latest review. “We have been consulting, and we will push the prices for buses up starting from tomorrow because if you see that we normally use diesel and the diesel has gone up by 40 shillings,” Karakacha said. He added that the association will engage members from across the country to agree on the new fare structure, with discussions expected to take place on Wednesday. Despite defending the move as necessary to sustain operations, Karakacha acknowledged that the increase will place a heavy burden on commuters. “From tomorrow, we will be talking to our members all over the country, and we know they are going to adjust the fare upwards. The common mwananchi is the one who is going to suffer because they are the consumers we carry daily,” he said. The fare hike comes in the wake of a fuel price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which announced new pump prices effective from April 15 to May 14, 2026. According to EPRA, the price of super petrol increased by Ksh28.69 per litre, while diesel rose by Ksh40.30 per litre. The price of kerosene remained unchanged during the review period. “In the period under review, the maximum allowed petroleum pump prices for super petrol and diesel increased by Ksh28.69 per litre and Ksh40.30 per litre respectively, while the price of kerosene remained unchanged,” EPRA stated. The increase in fuel costs is expected to trigger a ripple effect across the transport sector, with commuters bearing the brunt through higher fares and increased cost of living.

Vivo Gas Station Motorists and households are set to dig deeper into their pockets over the next 30 days following the latest fuel price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which took effect on April 15, 2026. The new prices mean consumers will collectively pay an additional Ksh542 million every day for petrol and diesel compared to the previous pricing cycle, significantly raising the national fuel bill. According to EPRA, the price of super petrol has increased by Ksh28.69 per litre, while diesel has risen by Ksh40.30 per litre. The price of kerosene, however, remains unchanged. “In the period under review, the maximum allowed petroleum pump prices for super petrol and diesel increased by Ksh28.69 per litre and Ksh40.30 per litre respectively, while the price of kerosene remained unchanged,” EPRA stated. In Nairobi, super petrol, diesel and kerosene will now retail at Ksh206.97, Ksh206.84 and Ksh152.78 per litre respectively. In Mombasa, the prices stand at Ksh203.69, Ksh203.56 and Ksh149.49 per litre. Based on Kenya’s average daily fuel consumption, the increase translates into a sharp rise in national expenditure. Public data shows the country consumes approximately 15.4 million litres of petroleum products daily, including about 9.1 million litres of diesel and 6.3 million litres of super petrol. With the new prices, diesel users will pay an additional Ksh366 million per day, while petrol consumers will incur an extra Ksh176 million, bringing the combined daily burden to Ksh542 million. If sustained over a full year, the increase would push Kenya’s fuel bill up by an estimated Ksh198 billion, further tightening pressure on the economy. EPRA attributed the price adjustments to a sharp rise in the landed cost of imported fuel, reflecting global market pressures. “The average landed cost of imported Super Petrol increased by 41.53 per cent from US$582.11 per cubic metre in February 2026 to US$823.87 per cubic metre in March 2026. Diesel increased by 68.72 per cent from US$636.45 per cubic metre to US$1,073.2 per cubic metre, while kerosene rose by 105.15 per cent from US$639.48 per cubic metre to US$1,311.93 per cubic metre over the same period,” EPRA said. To cushion consumers, the regulator noted that the government will utilise approximately Ksh6.2 billion from the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) to stabilise pump prices. EPRA also clarified that certain fuel supplies were excluded from the current pricing formula. “We wish to reiterate that as per the earlier directive from the government, the Super Petrol delivered by One Petroleum ex MT Paloma has not been included in the computation of the applicable prices,” EPRA added. The sharp rise in fuel costs is expected to ripple across the economy, pushing up transport, food and production costs. Diesel, which powers most public transport and industrial activity, is likely to have the most immediate and widespread impact. With fuel being a key driver of inflation, the latest adjustments could further strain household budgets and complicate efforts to stabilise the cost of living.

Motorists and households are set to feel the pinch after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced significant increases in fuel prices for the period between April 15 and May 14, 2026. In its latest pricing review released on Tuesday, EPRA said the maximum retail price of Super Petrol will increase by KSh28.69 per litre, while Diesel will rise by a steeper KSh40.30 per litre. Kerosene prices will remain unchanged. The regulator attributed the sharp rise to escalating global oil prices, which have pushed up the landed cost of imported petroleum products. Kenya relies entirely on imported refined fuel, making local prices highly vulnerable to shifts in the international market. According to EPRA, the average landed cost of Super Petrol rose by forty one point five three percent, increasing from US$582.11 per cubic metre in February to US$823.87 in March. Diesel recorded an even sharper jump of sixty eight point seven two percent, while Kerosene more than doubled, rising by one hundred and five point one five percent over the same period. “The increases have been driven by escalated prices in the international market,” the authority said in a statement. To cushion consumers, the government reduced Value Added Tax on petroleum products from sixteen percent to thirteen percent, following recent legal adjustments. Additionally, about KSh6.2 billion will be drawn from the Petroleum Development Levy to help stabilise pump prices. Despite these interventions, EPRA noted that the pressure from global markets has outweighed the relief measures, leading to the latest spike in fuel prices. The authority also clarified that the pricing computation excluded Super Petrol delivered by One Petroleum ex MT Paloma, in line with an earlier government directive. EPRA further explained that petroleum products are traded internationally in US dollars, and fluctuations in the exchange rate continue to influence local pump prices. The Kenya shilling averaged about 130.08 units against the dollar in March, reflecting a slight weakening compared to previous months.

File image of a fuel pump nozzle The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has released new fuel prices. They are set to come into effect on Wednesday, April 15, taking into account the Iranian war. According to EPRA's most recent pricing review, the price of Super Petrol will rise by Ksh28.69 per litre, whereas Diesel will experience a more significant increase of Ksh40.30 per litre.

Sakaja marks State House wall set to be demolished after Ruto’s orders Part of the State House Nairobi perimeter wall built on riparian land has been marked for demolition as part of efforts to reclaim Nairobi’s waterways. In an update shared on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja said the decision was reached in collaboration with State House officials, the Nairobi River Commission, and local leadership from Nairobi West Sub-County under the ongoing Nairobi River Regeneration Programme. Sakaja described the move as a show of leadership and accountability, noting that President William Ruto had agreed to comply with environmental regulations. “I want to thank the president. He is the primary tenant here and has led by example. If this wall at the State House can come down, then every other structure along the riparian land must also be removed,” Sakaja said. The demolition forms part of a broader government plan to restore riparian reserves, rehabilitate degraded river systems, and modernise urban infrastructure along Nairobi’s waterways. Authorities say more than Ksh50 billion has been committed to the programme, which includes river clean-up, construction of pedestrian walkways and cycling lanes, and the development of public recreational spaces. “We are restoring the Nairobi River, creating walkways, reclaiming riparian land, and transforming the city. The walkways will serve as transport corridors where people can walk or cycle safely, with lighting and security,” Sakaja added. He noted that the project is expected to connect key parts of the city, allowing residents to move between areas such as Eastleigh and Westlands through improved river corridors. The initiative also includes major developments such as a modern Gikomba Market and upgrades around Globe Roundabout, with public participation forums ongoing in affected areas to build support. Sakaja, however, criticised politicians opposing the programme, accusing them of misleading residents. “It is unfortunate that some politicians are misleading people against what is beneficial for all of us. This programme is for the good of Nairobi,” he said. He also warned residents, particularly youth, against scavenging materials from partially demolished structures, citing safety concerns. “We will not allow people to risk their lives by scavenging from unsafe structures. Demolitions will be supervised to ensure safety,” he stated. The development follows a directive by President Ruto ordering the demolition of sections of State House built on riparian land along the Kirichwa Kubwa River. While addressing the Nairobi County Assembly on April 9, 2026, the president revealed that a multi-agency team had identified part of the State House boundary wall encroaching on the riparian reserve. “We have received notice from the multi-agency claiming riparian land that part of the State House boundary, the wall along Kirichwa Kubwa River, falls within the riparian reserve, and it must come down. They have told me at least 15 metres from the high mark,” Ruto said. He emphasised that enforcing planning regulations is key to building orderly and sustainable cities.

File Image of Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has raised alarm over Kenya’s rising public debt, warning that the country’s financial obligations are nearing unsustainable levels. Speaking during a media interview on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Nyoro claimed that Kenya’s debt is approaching Ksh13 trillion, adding that the figure could be higher when what he termed as “illegal borrowings” through securitisation are included. “Currently, the Kenyan debt is going towards 13 trillion Kenyan shillings. If you add now the illegal borrowings of securitisation, then it means in the last four years this government has almost borrowed money that was borrowed in the last 10 years of President Uhuru Kenyatta,” Nyoro stated. The outspoken lawmaker argued that the scale of borrowing under the current administration is unprecedented, suggesting it is nearly equivalent to the total debt accumulated during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s ten-year tenure. Nyoro also stressed the need for responsible leadership, warning that the country’s future is at risk if borrowing trends are not checked. “It is important that we know, as the people who are currently leading. Even as you lead Kenya now, there is Kenya in the next few years, and Kenyans do not want to be put into this incompetent experimentation,” he said. His remarks come amid growing concern over Kenya’s fiscal position, with Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o cautioning that the country is slipping into a debt trap. Appearing before the National Assembly’s Committee on Public Debt and Privatisation on Monday, March 30, 2026, Nyakang’o warned that costly borrowing and poor coordination in project implementation are worsening the situation. She revealed that Kenya’s public debt had risen to Ksh12.29 trillion as of December 2025, representing 67.8 per cent of GDP—well above the legal threshold of 55 per cent. “Half of debt payments are only financial costs rather than debt reduction. The principal figure is not reducing. We are just paying interest,” Nyakang’o told the committee. She further noted that weak planning has contributed to the crisis, citing cases where funds are secured before projects are ready for implementation, leading to stalled initiatives such as Konza Technopolis and some Kenya Power projects dating back to 2017. “We find ourselves in a debt trap where we sign for loans when we are not ready. Treasury mobilises funds without ensuring implementers are prepared,” she added. The latest warnings add to mounting pressure on the government to rein in borrowing and implement reforms aimed at safeguarding the country’s financial stability.

A Collage of Speaker Moses Wetangula and Kenyan baskeballer Medina Okoth National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has congratulated Kenyan basketball star Madina Okot after she was selected by the Atlanta Dream in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Draft. In a post shared on his official X account on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Wetang’ula hailed Okot’s achievement as proof that one’s background does not define their future. “Congratulations to Madina Okot on being selected 13th overall in the WNBA Draft by the Atlanta Dream. Her journey proves that where you begin does not limit where you can go. Raised in Kenya and shaped by a close-knit family, she embodies perseverance and determination,” Wetang’ula said. Okot, who was born in Mumias, initially played volleyball at Bishop Sulumeti High School in Kakamega before switching to basketball after joining Kaya Tiwi Secondary School. Wetang’ula praised her rapid rise in the sport, noting that she only began playing basketball in 2020 and has now reached the global stage in just four years. “Remarkably, Madina only started playing basketball in 2020. In just four years, she has risen from local courts to national and international stages. At 21, she represents the limitless potential of Kenyan youth, proof that discipline and hard work turn dreams into reality,” he added. “Madina, you are inspiring a generation to dream bigger. Keep soaring. Kenya is proud of you,” he concluded. Okot previously featured for the South Carolina Gamecocks and entered the draft as one of the top international prospects after an impressive 2025/26 collegiate season. She averaged 12.8 points, 10.6 rebounds per game, shot 57.5 per cent from the field and 44.8 per cent from three-point range, while recording 22 double-doubles, tying for the most among Power Conference players. The Atlanta Dream confirmed her selection with a message saying, “Welcome to Atlanta @okotmadina!”

File image of lawyer Ndegwa Njiru Outspoken lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has dismissed claims by Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is seeking a political ceasefire with President William Ruto. In a post shared on X on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Njiru said Gachagua is not desperate for a political handshake with the Head of State, pushing back against speculation of a possible reconciliation. “HE. Gachagua is not that desperate for a handshake with an outgoing president,” Njiru stated. Njiru, an ally of the former deputy president, was responding to remarks made by Wamuchomba, who had earlier claimed that Gachagua was orchestrating political moves aimed at securing a truce with Ruto. In her post on Monday, April 13, 2026, Wamuchomba alleged that Gachagua had been attacking key allies of the president as part of a broader strategy to gain leverage and force a handshake. “Wamunyoro’s game is simple: he wants a handshake with President Ruto. His strategy is to viciously attack those hardliners who have the president’s ear so that he can blackmail the president with Mlima votes,” she claimed. The legislator further referenced a recent funeral event, alleging that Gachagua mentioned National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah more than 21 times, accusing him of prioritising political attacks over condoling with the bereaved family. In a swift response, Njiru rejected the claims, maintaining that Gachagua is not pursuing any political truce with the current administration. The exchange highlights growing tensions among leaders in the Mt Kenya region, as political divisions continue to widen ahead of the 2027 elections.

Germanys Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Ruto In brlin Germany The German Academic Exchange Service has opened applications for its In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme targeting students across Sub-Saharan Africa. In an update issued on Monday, April 13, the German Embassy said the programme aims to support academically qualified graduates committed to advancing sustainable development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the region. The scholarship specifically targets candidates seeking to pursue Master’s degrees in development-related fields. According to the announcement, the programme is available at selected universities in several African countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, and Burkina Faso. Applicants can choose from a wide range of disciplines aligned with sustainable development, such as engineering, natural sciences, public and environmental health, agricultural sciences, and social sciences. The scholarship is open to graduates and postgraduates from Sub-Saharan Africa who hold at least a first academic degree and intend to enroll in a Master’s programme. DAAD has also emphasised inclusivity, encouraging women and candidates from disadvantaged regions or groups to apply in a bid to promote equal access to education opportunities. Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive funding package, including a monthly stipend, full tuition coverage, and annual research allowances. Some beneficiaries may also get opportunities for research stays abroad, depending on funding availability and the strength of their applications. Interested Kenyan students have been urged to submit their applications before the April 29, 2026 deadline through the official DAAD platform. This comes a week after the Communications Authority of Kenya announced a nationwide call for applications for its student attachment programme. In a notice issued on Friday, April 3, the authority said the three-month programme is designed to equip students with hands-on skills while exposing them to real-world regulatory operations in sectors such as telecommunications, cybersecurity, e-commerce, broadcasting, multimedia, and postal and courier services. The CA noted that successful applicants will be placed across various departments aligned with their academic backgrounds. These include Human Resources and Administration, Corporate Communications, Finance and Accounts, and Supply Chain Management. Technical placements will also be available in areas such as Frequency and Spectrum Management, Compliance Enforcement, Monitoring and Inspection, and Postal and Telecommunications Licensing. Students pursuing ICT-related courses can apply for roles in Information Technology and Cybersecurity, while other departments open for attachment include Consumer Protection and Advocacy, Public Education and Awareness, Standards and Type Approval, Universal Service Fund, Research and Quality Management, Competition Management, and Legal Services. Applicants are required to be continuing students in recognised universities, with their courses aligned to the departments they are applying for, and must demonstrate a strong interest in gaining practical experience in a regulatory environment. According to the CA, the programme offers valuable benefits, including hands-on experience at one of Kenya’s key regulatory bodies, exposure to industry professionals, and an opportunity to contribute to the development of the country’s ICT sector.

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is set to announce new pump prices today, with oil marketers warning of a possible increase in petrol costs. Kenya has maintained stable fuel prices for nearly two months despite pressure from the Iran–Israel conflict, but growing speculation over a price hike has triggered hoarding. Industry players estimate that petrol prices could rise by about Sh37 per litre, while diesel may increase by as much as Sh70 per litre. However, government intervention through the Fuel Stabilisation Fund could cushion consumers, even as the review reflects supply disruptions locally and volatility in global oil markets. The current situation stems from the February 28 joint attack on Iran by Israel and the United States, followed by retaliatory strikes by Iran targeting Gulf states that supply Kenya under the government-to-government fuel deal. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil shipments, has become a focal point after Donald Trump announced a naval blockade against Iranian-linked shipping, responding to Iran’s own blockade on a route that handles about 20 per cent of global oil supply. Under the current March–April pricing cycle, Super Petrol, diesel and kerosene retail at Sh178.28, Sh166.54 and Sh152.78 per litre, respectively. In the previous February–March cycle, EPRA reduced prices by Sh4.24 for petrol and Sh3.93 for diesel, with the rates retained in the latest review. Speaking before the National Assembly Committee on Energy, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi signalled that consumers may soon face higher prices at the pump. “Fuel prices are up worldwide, but I don't know if EPRA will increase or not. The truth of the matter is prices are high,” Wandayi said. He attributed Kenya’s relatively higher fuel prices compared to neighbouring countries to the tax structure, noting that other countries impose lower fuel taxes. Wandayi, whose ministry is under investigation over allegations of importing substandard fuel, has dismissed calls to resign, maintaining he will remain in office.

Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o on Monday, April 13, convened a high-level security meeting following a series of recent attacks reported across the county. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including members of the County Executive, security agencies, Members of Parliament, and Members of the County Assembly. In a statement issued after the meeting, Nyong’o warned that Kisumu’s standing as a key economic hub was under threat if urgent action is not taken. “Kisumu remains a leading investment hub and gateway to the Lake Region Economic Bloc. However, recent acts of lawlessness threaten our progress, investor confidence, and community safety,” the statement read. The meeting comes in the wake of an attack involving Godfrey Osotsi at Java House West End Mall, as well as a raid at Fairways Hotel, a property linked to former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera. Condemning the incidents, Nyong’o directly tied the attacks to broader economic risks facing the county. “We strongly condemn the recent attacks on private property and investment, particularly the incidents at Fairways Hotel and Java House West End Mall. These are criminal acts that undermine livelihoods and economic stability,” the statement added. The governor also called on the national government to intervene and restore order, urging swift action against those responsible. “We call on the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to act urgently by enhancing intelligence, identifying those responsible and ensuring the swift arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators without fear and favour. The peace, stability and prosperity of Kisumu are non-negotiable,” the statement concluded. The developments come days after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested three suspects in connection with the attack on Osotsi. In a statement on Thursday, April 9, the agency said it had apprehended 24-year-old Carlos Owiti alias Kalonje from Nyalenda, alongside Eric Otieno alias Dude (39) from Manyatta, and Vincent Odhiambo alias Tinga (27), also from Nyalenda. The three are accused of being part of a group that attacked the senator at a coffee shop within West End Mall, leaving him seriously injured. “They are currently in police custody and are being processed for arraignment in court. Investigations have been intensified, with detectives actively pursuing additional suspects linked to the incident,” the statement read in part. The DCI further thanked members of the public who have provided information to support the probe and urged continued cooperation as investigations continue. The suspects were among individuals earlier named by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino during a press briefing.