Government Explains Cause of Fuel Disruptions in the Country

The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has attributed recent fuel supply disruptions in parts of the country to a temporary technical and administrative hitch, assuring Kenyans that the situation has now been resolved and normal deliveries are being restored.

In a statement on Tuesday, May 6, 2026, Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the challenges were experienced in isolated filling stations and were linked to inefficiencies that affected the optimal uptake of petroleum products by a section of oil marketing companies operating downstream.

The ministry noted that the hitch briefly disrupted the supply chain, leading to shortages in select areas. However, it said it has since moved swiftly to address the issue in collaboration with industry stakeholders.

“The matter has since been resolved, and the Ministry is working closely with industry stakeholders to normalize deliveries,” Wandayi said.

Fuel restocking across affected petrol stations is currently underway, with the government expressing confidence that supply will stabilize nationwide by the end of the day.

The assurance comes amid concerns from motorists and businesses over sporadic shortages that had begun to emerge in some regions, raising fears of a wider supply crisis.

Wandayi sought to calm the situation, emphasizing that the country has sufficient fuel reserves and that there is no need for panic buying.

“The Ministry wishes to reassure Kenyans that the country has adequate fuel stocks. There should be no cause for alarm,” he said.

He added that the government remains committed to maintaining national energy security and ensuring a steady and reliable supply of fuel to households, businesses and industries.

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