By KPC Ongaga Ongaga
The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has assured Kenyans that the country has sufficient petroleum stocks despite escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Kenya relies on the region for much of her fuel imports.
In a press statement, Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the government had reviewed the current supply and stock situation and confirmed that there is no immediate cause for alarm.
“In light of the escalating tensions in the Middle East region where our petroleum products supply is sourced, the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has reviewed the supply and stock situation,” Wandayi said.
He added: “As at today, the country has sufficient stocks to cover both the country and the region. We have scheduled imports for delivery up to end of April 2026 and, therefore, as it stands, we are assured of security of supply.”
Kenya imports most of its refined petroleum products through the Open Tender System, with cargo landing at the Port of Mombasa before distribution inland and to neighboring countries.
Any disruption in the Middle East — a key global oil-producing region — often raises concerns over global crude prices, shipping routes, and insurance costs, all of which can affect pump prices locally.
Global oil markets have recently shown volatility amid heightened geopolitical tensions, with benchmark crude prices fluctuating as investors assess potential supply disruptions.
Analysts warn that any prolonged instability in major oil-producing states or along key shipping corridors such as the Strait of Hormuz could trigger price spikes.
Wandayi said the government is closely monitoring developments.
“We are closely monitoring the fluid situation as it evolves whilst engaging with our G-G suppliers for contingency planning,” he stated.
He further assured the public and industry players that the Ministry “remains alert and shall continue taking necessary actions to ensure there is uninterrupted supply.”
Kenya has in recent years sought to stabilize its fuel market through government-to-government fuel supply arrangements aimed at easing pressure on foreign exchange reserves and cushioning consumers from sharp price swings.
The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that the Ministry would continue updating the country as the situation evolves.
“The Ministry undertakes to keep the country sufficiently updated,” he said.