President William Ruto has assured Kenyans that the government is taking decisive steps to mitigate supply chain disruptions arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, even as global economic pressures intensify.
In a statement dated March 30, 2026, the President warned that the conflict is already affecting economies worldwide, with ripple effects being felt across global supply chains.
“The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is having a significant impact on the global economy. This disruption is already being felt across global supply chains and is placing pressure on economies worldwide,” he said.
He noted that Africa, including Kenya, is not immune to these shocks, but emphasized that the government has remained vigilant over the past month.
“Over the past month, the Government has remained vigilant and has actively managed developments, guided by continuous updates and assessments from relevant ministries and agencies,” Ruto said.
The President revealed that he had received a comprehensive briefing from key government agencies and private sector players to assess the situation and chart a way forward.
“In light of the evolving geopolitical developments, I received a comprehensive briefing this afternoon from the Ministries of Energy, Agriculture, Trade, the National Treasury, the Central Bank, as well as private sector players, on the situation and possible recommendations on the way forward,” he said.
Fuel supply safeguarded despite global price pressures
On petroleum products, Ruto said the government is closely monitoring the impact of rising global oil prices, while putting in place measures to cushion consumers.
“Regarding petroleum products, while the impact on pricing is still being assessed, measures are being put in place to moderate any adverse effects and ensure that Kenya maintains adequate supplies,” he said.
He credited the Government-to-Government fuel procurement arrangement with shielding Kenyans from immediate shocks.
“Rising international oil prices are already affecting consumers globally. However, the Government-to-Government fuel procurement arrangement has cushioned Kenyans from immediate shocks. This strategic intervention has mitigated price increases, ensured security of supply, and proven to be both prudent and forward-looking,” he stated.
The Ministry of Energy, he added, will continue monitoring prices in collaboration with the National Treasury to implement appropriate interventions.
Ruto reassured farmers that fertiliser supplies remain stable despite the global disruptions.
“On fertiliser, I wish to assure the nation that no disruptions are expected. We have sufficient supplies to support the current rainy season through to September this year,” he said.
On trade, the President acknowledged concerns that key exports such as tea could face challenges in some markets, but noted that performance remains strong due to diversification efforts.
“With regard to trade, while some key exports, particularly tea, were expected to face challenges in certain markets, it is encouraging that performance remains strong,” he said.
“The latest data indicates that we exported 81% of tea offered for auction this month, compared to 75% in March 2025,” he added.
The President also highlighted increased activity at key ports, underscoring Kenya’s strategic position in global logistics.
“We are also witnessing significant growth in activity at the Ports of Mombasa and Lamu. Notably, the Port of Lamu has recorded a sharp rise in throughput, including the handling of over 4,000 high-value motor vehicles destined for Gulf markets for onward transshipment,” he said.
“This underscores the strategic importance of our port infrastructure, whose capacity and efficiency we continue to enhance,” he added.
He further revealed plans to engage international logistics firms to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
“We will also engage international logistics companies to leverage emerging opportunities and strengthen Kenya’s position in regional and global trade,” he said.
However, the President acknowledged that the crisis has negatively affected meat exports due to logistical and freight constraints.
“However, meat exports have been affected due to logistical and freight challenges. The Ministries of Trade and Agriculture will collaborate to explore alternative solutions to support exporters in this sector,” he said.
Ruto concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to closely monitor the situation and take decisive action to protect Kenyans.
“The Government remains committed to closely monitoring developments and taking decisive action to safeguard the economic well-being of all Kenyans,” he said.
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