By Andrew Kariuki
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has confirmed a fuel shortage in parts of Nairobi and Machakos County following inspections conducted at petrol stations on April 9.
According to the regulator, several stations are experiencing long queues, with some running out of stock as demand surges across the affected areas.
EPRA noted that the situation has been worsened by panic buying, with motorists rushing to refuel amid fears of an impending shortage.
“Our Surveillance and Enforcement team from the Nairobi region conducted inspections at various petrol stations in Nairobi and Machakos counties to check compliance and confirm fuel availability,” the authority said.
It added that while most stations still had fuel, a number had temporarily run dry and were awaiting resupply.
Petrol station operators in Nairobi had earlier warned that their existing stocks could only last a few days, citing slowed deliveries that have left retailers struggling to meet increased demand.
The regulator pointed out that key supply depots, including the National Oil Nairobi National Terminal and the Kenya Pipeline Company Nairobi Terminal in Industrial Area, are currently experiencing delays due to heavy traffic as dealers rush to replenish supplies.
However, EPRA emphasised that the challenges are largely logistical rather than a supply crisis.
“No station reported a lack of fuel supply at the depots,” the authority stated, distinguishing the situation as a distribution bottleneck rather than an actual shortage of fuel in the country.
In recent days, motorists in some areas have reported difficulties accessing fuel, with isolated cases of petrol being sold at up to KSh200 per litre.
Despite these concerns, EPRA maintained that the country has sufficient fuel stocks and urged the public to remain calm.
“We urge Kenyans to remain calm, as there is a sufficient fuel supply in the country, and to avoid panic buying,” the authority said.
It also warned petroleum dealers against hoarding, noting that the practice is an offence punishable by law upon conviction.
