Fuel Crisis Hits Kisumu as Prices Hit Record High and Stations Run Dry
Kisumu motorists woke up yesterday to record fuel prices and empty pumps across the city after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced a fresh price hike that has pushed the cost of fuel to historic highs. The increase comes at a time when supply has already tightened, leaving residents scrambling for petrol and diesel.
Most stations dry, long queues at the few with stock
As of yesterday, the majority of petrol stations in Kisumu had run out of fuel — including outlets operated by Shell. The only station widely reported to have fuel available was Green Wells Petrol Station CBD, where motorists formed long queues stretching through the city centre.
Drivers reported waiting for hours just to access limited fuel supplies, while others left empty-handed as stocks ran out before they reached the pump.
The situation reflects a broader national crisis, with similar shortages reported in Nairobi, Eldoret and Nyeri.
Nationwide supply disruptions despite assurances
The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) has insisted the country has adequate fuel reserves. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story as supply disruptions continue to affect deliveries to filling stations.
Reports from Daily Nation indicate that motorists across the country are facing rationing and long queues, with fears growing that a total stock-out could occur within a week if the situation persists.
Rationing and panic buying
To manage the limited supply, many stations have begun rationing fuel sales. Some motorists are only allowed to purchase small amounts, triggering panic buying and worsening queues as drivers rush to fill up whenever fuel becomes available.
Independent petrol dealers say they are receiving less stock than usual, blaming difficulties in the wholesale fuel market and payment delays that have previously affected imports.
I tried to ask one attendant why things are so bad, and he just shrugged. "The problem is not us, it's above. We are also tired of explaining," he said. That kind of response — short and helpless — is what many Kisumu residents are hearing at closed fuel stations.
What is causing the shortage?
Several factors are believed to be driving the crisis:
- Logistical bottlenecks: EPRA and marketers cite distribution challenges affecting deliveries.
- Payment delays to marketers: Past government delays in settling payments have slowed imports.
- Supply chain concerns: Kenya lacks significant strategic petroleum reserves, making the country vulnerable to disruptions.
- Market anxiety and hoarding fears: Some reports suggest traders may be holding back supply amid uncertainty.
Impact on Kisumu residents
The shortage is already being felt across the city:
- Transport disruption: Boda-boda riders and matatu operators are spending hours in queues, drastically reducing daily income.
- Higher cost of living fears: Residents worry the record fuel prices will push up transport fares and the cost of basic commodities.
- Business slowdown: Small businesses dependent on transport and generators are bracing for rising operational costs.
Uncertain days ahead
With supply still inconsistent and prices at record highs, Kisumu residents now face uncertainty about how long the crisis will last. If deliveries do not stabilise soon, the city could experience even longer queues, stricter rationing and further price pressure in the weeks ahead.
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