Kenyans Lament Lack of Fare Relief Despite Falling Fuel Prices

The recent reduction in fuel prices since the beginning of the year has been a double-edged sword for many Kenyans.

While motorists and car owners have welcomed the slight reprieve, indirect fuel consumers, such as public transport users, feel that the benefits have not trickled down to them.

The latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority indicates that the maximum allowed petroleum pump price for super petrol, diesel, and kerosene has decreased by Ksh.1.00, Ksh.1.20, and Ksh.1.30 per litre, respectively, in the May-June period.

This follows a more significant reduction of Ksh.5.30, Ksh.10.00, and Ksh.18.68 per litre, respectively, in the April review.

However, many Kenyans argue that the 1 shilling drop in fuel prices is insufficient to make a tangible difference in their daily lives. They feel that since fuel prices have been on a downward trend, the cost of public transportation should also have decreased accordingly.

"The maximum allowed petroleum pump price for super petrol, diesel and kerosene decrease by Ksh.1.00 per litre, 1.20 per litre and 1.30 per liter," read the EPRA statement. "But what good is that to us when the fare prices have not reduced?" questioned @mesocarpp on X.

Other Kenyans echoed similar sentiments:

@samm_de_sagga

EPRA wanreduce fuel prices na 1 bob. Will it have any effect?"

@Mutai364

Waone vile wataprotect indirect consumers wa fuel. How come EPRA inashukisha bei ya mafuta na Fare Haishuki!

The consensus among Kenyan commuters is that the reduction in the prices of fuel has not translated to any meaningful relief in their cost of living. They argue that until the savings from lower fuel costs are passed on to them through lower public transport fares, the impact of the fuel price cuts will remain minimal.