Fuel Rationing Hits Some Kenyan Petrol Stations Ahead of EPRA Price Review

Kenyans have expressed frustration as several petrol stations reportedly begin fuel rationing ahead of the upcoming Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) fuel price review.

According to social media reports, stations are limiting the amount of fuel per customer and enforcing strict payment methods, causing inconvenience for motorists. 

Some consumers said they had to wake up early to refill their tanks before the anticipated price hike.

@terrikibiriti revealed that an outlet along Ngong Road set a maximum fuel refill of KSh 2,000 and only accepted cash.

@JoyceMw27159977 said she woke up at 6 a.m. to fill a full tank.

Other users reported similar experiences, highlighting widespread concern over access to fuel.

The Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK) also criticized Ola Energy, accusing their Matunda, Moi’s Bridge station of hoarding fuel to sell at higher prices after the EPRA review. COFEK tweeted:

"Dear @KenyaOla, why is your Matunda, Moi’s Bridge station out of fuel? Are you hoarding for better prices from midnight, or affected by the Iran war?"

Global Oil Prices Surge

The fuel rationing coincides with a spike in global oil prices, driven by ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Brent crude recently reached almost $120 per barrel after US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures rose toward $95 per barrel on March 12.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) announced the release of 400 million barrels from emergency reserves, the largest coordinated drawdown since the 1973 oil embargo, but global markets remain volatile.

Additional tensions in the region, including attacks on oil tankers in Iraqi waters and warnings from Iran about oil prices potentially reaching $200 per barrel, continue to fuel uncertainty in the market.

Epra Director General Daniel Kiptoo previously highlighted these challenges while releasing the Energy and Petroleum Statistics Report in March 2025, noting that global instability directly affects local fuel prices and availability.

The current situation underscores the impact of international events on local energy security, with Kenyans feeling the immediate effects through rationing