EPRA Announces Fuel Price Reductions Ahead of Festive Season in Kenya

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The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has reduced petrol prices by Sh4.37 per litre, diesel by Sh3 per litre, and kerosene by Sh3 per litre ahead of the festive season. This price reduction occurs amidst a backdrop of declining international petrol prices and a stable Kenyan Shilling. Although these changes benefit motorists, public service vehicle operators may raise fares, prompting concerns about equitable pricing practices.

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced a significant reduction in fuel prices, aimed at easing the financial strain on Kenyans during the festive season. This timely adjustment comes as many individuals prepare for increased travel in anticipation of the Christmas and New Year celebrations. As of the latest guidelines released, petrol prices have decreased by Sh4.37 per litre, now standing at Sh176.29. Diesel prices have also been lowered by Sh3 per litre, with the new retail price set at Sh165.06, while kerosene retains a similar price reduction, now costing Sh148.39.

This alteration in pricing marks the lowest retail prices for petroleum products since April of the previous year, spurred by a slight drop in international petrol prices. However, it is noteworthy that prices for diesel and kerosene have increased globally. The stability of the Kenyan Shilling, currently valued at approximately Sh129 against the US dollar, has contributed to consistent operational costs within the fuel pricing framework.

While the revision presents a favorable prospect for motorists, concerns arise regarding public service vehicle (PSV) operators, who often elevate fares during peak travel periods. Early indications highlight a surge in transport fares from major urban centers like Nairobi to rural areas. Furthermore, consumer rights advocate Stephen Mutoro has raised concerns over the responsiveness of companies to adjust prices according to fluctuating operational costs, suggesting a tendency to hasten price hikes but delay reductions.

The notable decline in fuel prices, which has plummeted over Sh40 per litre since October of the previous year, can be attributed to several factors: a decrease in crude oil prices, a strengthened Kenyan Shilling, and occasional government subsidies facilitated by the petroleum development levy. The stabilization of the Kenyan Shilling plays a crucial role, as it currently exchanges at Sh129 to the dollar, a stark improvement from the Sh155 rate in October and Sh164 last December. Such stability enables importers to absorb lower costs when procuring petroleum products, thereby contributing to the overall decrease in retail prices. Nonetheless, these developments underscore the need for fair pricing practices within the market.

The announcement by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) regarding the reduction of fuel prices is particularly relevant as the festive season approaches, a time characterized by increased travel. Fuel pricing dynamics are influenced by various factors, including international oil markets, exchange rates, and local economic conditions. The recent trends indicate a decline in crude oil prices alongside a strengthening Kenyan Shilling, which has enabled reductions in retail prices for petroleum products, benefiting consumers in a context where transportation costs often rise during peak periods.

In summary, EPRA’s announcement of reduced fuel prices creates an opportunity for Kenyans to experience financial relief amid the festive season. While motorists may gain from these reductions, public transport fares are expected to rise, raising concerns about equitable pricing practices among transport operators. Consumer advocate Stephen Mutoro’s comments highlight the ongoing challenge of synchronizing pricing adjustments with shifts in operational costs, emphasizing the importance of consumer protection and transparent pricing in today’s market.

Original Source: www.mwakilishi.com

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