EPRA identifies 25 petrol stations manipulating pump prices

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has issued show-cause letters to 25 petrol stations across Kenya over alleged manipulation of pump prices. The retailers face potential penalties if found to have breached pricing and licensing conditions as the regulator intensifies a nationwide crackdown on malpractice.

Crackdown on suspected price manipulation

EPRA Acting Director General Joseph Oketch told lawmakers that regulatory teams deployed around the country flagged several outlets for selling fuel above the officially published prices. He said the 25 oil marketing companies (OMCs) have been asked to explain the alleged violations, and that enforcement actions will follow in line with the law for any entities found culpable.

Fuel supply outlook: stocks and shipments

Despite recent reports of shortages in several regions, the regulator maintains that national fuel stocks are adequate. According to Oketch, Kenya has sufficient super petrol to cover at least two weeks of demand, supported by scheduled replenishments. A vessel carrying 50,000 cubic metres of fuel is expected to berth and discharge imminently, with additional shipments lined up to maintain continuous supply under the normal replenishment model.

Government vows tough action

Appearing alongside the regulator before the National Assembly’s Energy Committee, the Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the government will not tolerate artificial shortages or non-compliance with pricing rules. He noted current stock positions in terminals and depots include approximately 183,318 cubic metres of super petrol, 172,760 cubic metres of diesel, and 113,575 cubic metres of jet fuel, with more consignments scheduled under the government-to-government framework. Authorities indicated that entities found to have breached licence conditions will face severe action as provided by law.

Outlets under scrutiny

EPRA’s investigations cover 25 stations countrywide. Among those named as being under review are:

• Peter Lusweti Filling Station
• Station One Filling
• Zabco
• Milimani Filling Station in Kitale
• Equipetrol Filling Station
• M7 Kibaruti Filling Station

The regulator emphasised that due process is underway and any sanctions will follow confirmation of violations.

Strategic reserves and NOCK’s role

Members of Parliament on the Energy Committee, chaired by David Gikaria, urged accelerated efforts to strengthen the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOCK) so it can fulfil its mandate to build and manage strategic fuel reserves. Under existing policy, Kenya aims to hold strategic stocks sufficient for 90 days of consumption, in line with global best practices. However, limited funding has delayed the establishment of such reserves. The government is considering partnerships with private players to develop contingency storage facilities in Mombasa to bolster supply security.

Queues persist despite supply assurances

Since last week, motorists in multiple regions have experienced disruptions and long queues as outlets reported stock-outs. Authorities attribute some of the strain to non-compliance and alleged artificial shortages, while reiterating that national inventories and scheduled imports are adequate to meet demand. The government and EPRA have pledged swift investigations and enforcement to stabilise the market and protect consumers from overpricing and unnecessary interruptions.

As the probe continues, EPRA has urged the public to report suspected malpractice and to rely on the regulator’s published pump prices. Retailers found to have manipulated prices or hoarded fuel face penalties, including potential licence sanctions, once investigations are concluded.