As the concern over the possible shortage of petroleum products rises, the Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi, has directed all the oil marketers in the country to sell the petroleum products they may be hoarding in the market at the existing prices as set by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
During a press briefing on Wednesday, March 25, CS Wandayi assured the nation of the availability of sufficient petroleum products in the country and encouraged the public to remain calm and refrain from purchasing the products in large quantities.
According to the CS, some marketers have been hoarding the products with the intention of selling them at a higher price in the future, which is considered to be “unacceptable.”
“We have noted with grave concern that some retailers are hoarding products with the intention of selling at higher prices. This is unacceptable, and we will take firm action against those found in violation.”
The Ministry also indicated that the government’s agreements with other countries regarding the supply of fuel are still valid, with some partners, such as Saudi Arabia’s Saudi Aramco, Abu Dhabi’s Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, and the Emirates’ Emirates National Oil Company still supplying fuel to the country.
CS Wandayi also mentioned that there are no imminent plans to change the prices of fuel in the country and asked Kenyans not to panic.
“I must discourage Kenyans not to engage in any form of panic buying, to remain calm and continue their normal fuel purchasing patterns. To the Oil Marketing Companies we count on our cooperation. There is no shortage of fuel in the country and the government intends to keep it that way,” he said.
Uganda’s Energy Minister, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, also assured Ugandans that the supply of fuel in the country is stable and asked oil firms in the country not to take advantage of the situation. Uganda has enough fuel to last for at least 21 days, with most of it being and relying on imports through Mombasa.
Currently, the prices in the country are as follows: super petrol is sold at 178.28 Kenya Shillings, diesel at 166.54 Kenya Shillings, and kerosene at 152.78 Kenya Shillings, while in Uganda, petrol goes for 173 Kenya Shillings and diesel for 164 Kenya Shillings.
CS Wandayi’s claims are made at a time when the government is keeping a watchful eye on the supply of fuel, ensuring that Kenyans get petroleum products at reasonable prices
