President William Ruto has spoken out over rising concerns about fuel shortages in the country, warning oil marketers against creating artificial scarcity for profit.
Speaking at the State House on Thursday, Mr. President linked the situation to disruptions in global supply, especially around the Strait of Hormuz, a key route used to transport oil. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East, he said, are already affecting how fuel and other goods are moved across the world.
“The challenge of the Middle East crisis is going to affect fuel supply and other commodities because of transport and logistics around the Strait of Hormuz,” Ruto said.
Even as he explained the global challenges, the President sent a strong warning to local oil marketers. “We have also been very clear the government of Kenya is not going to entertain any artificial shortages that are meant to benefit profiteers,” he said.
He said that the government is watching all licensed fuel companies and warned that any firm found breaking the rules will face action. He insisted that no one should take advantage of the situation at the expense of ordinary Kenyans.
He also revealed that directed the Ministry of Energy to work with suppliers and look for alternative sources of fuel. “If necessary, we will find alternative sources that would help us avoid shortages,” he said.
The President also noted that the impact of the Middle East crisis goes beyond fuel, saying exports like tea, coffee and flowers could also be affected.
His remarks come at a time when some petrol stations across the country have already started running low on fuel, while airlines have warned of possible fare increases from April due to rising fuel costs.