By Ongaga Ongaga
The Kenya Transporters Association Ltd (KTA) has raised alarm over “a worsening fuel supply crisis across the country.”
KTA cited rationing, restricted bulk access, and the withdrawal of credit facilities by oil marketers.
In a statement addressed to key energy stakeholders—including the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, and the Kenya Pipeline Company—the association said transporters are increasingly unable to access fuel in sufficient quantities to sustain operations.
“Transporters across the country… have reported widespread fuel rationing, refusal by marketers to supply in bulk, and a complete withdrawal of credit facilities,” KTA said.
The association noted that the situation persists despite repeated assurances from government agencies that the country has adequate fuel stocks.
“This is happening despite repeated public assurances… that the country has sufficient fuel stocks and that there is no shortage,” the statement added.
Disconnect Between Assurances and Reality
KTA pointed to a growing disconnect between official communication and what transporters are experiencing on the ground.
While authorities maintain that reserves are adequate, operators say access remains constrained.
“There is a growing and troubling disconnect between official statements indicating adequate national fuel reserves and actual market behaviour,” the association said.
As a result, transporters are grappling with severe operational challenges, including increased costs due to small-volume purchases, disruptions in logistics planning, and mounting cash flow pressures following the withdrawal of credit terms.
Economic Risks Loom
The association warned that the crisis could have far-reaching implications for the economy, given the central role of road transport in Kenya and the wider East African region.
“The road transport sector is the backbone of Kenya’s economy and regional trade,” KTA stated, cautioning that the current situation threatens the movement of essential goods, the stability of supply chains, and the country’s position as a regional logistics hub.
KTA is calling for immediate intervention to stabilize the fuel supply chain.
Among its key demands are transparency from government agencies on actual fuel stock levels, clear directives to oil marketing companies to resume bulk supply, and the reinstatement of reasonable credit arrangements for verified logistics operators.
The association also urged stronger accountability measures to address any artificial supply constraints, hoarding, or market manipulation.
“If indeed the country has sufficient fuel, then the market must reflect this reality immediately and consistently,” KTA emphasized.
It further called for urgent engagement between the government, regulators, oil marketers, and industry players to resolve the disruptions.
“We urge the Government and all relevant stakeholders to act decisively to restore normalcy, confidence, and stability in the fuel supply chain,” the statement concluded.