President William Ruto has now come out clearly to explain why fuel prices in Kenya remain higher compared to neighbouring countries such as Tanzania and Uganda.
Speaking for the first time in detail on the matter, the Head of State addressed the issue during a church service held in Karen on Sunday, April 19.
His remarks come at a time when many Kenyans are increasingly questioning the rising cost of fuel and comparing it with cheaper prices across the region.
According to President Ruto, one of the main reasons behind the higher fuel prices is Kenya’s economic classification.
He explained that Kenya is considered a middle-income country, unlike some of its neighbours within the East African Community, which are still classified among the least developed nations.
Because of this difference, Kenya carries a heavier financial responsibility in terms of taxation and national development.
The President noted that many comparisons being made by the public are not entirely fair.
He argued that Kenya should be compared with countries that fall under the same economic category, rather than with nations that have lower development levels. In his view, such comparisons would give a more accurate picture of why the costs differ.
In addition to economic status, Ruto pointed out that a significant portion of fuel prices in Kenya is made up of levies and taxes that are directed towards infrastructure development, especially road maintenance.
He explained that these charges are not imposed without reason but are meant to support the country’s expanding transport network.
The Head of State revealed that Kenya currently maintains more than 20,000 kilometres of tarmac roads across the country. He added that another 6,000 kilometres are currently under construction.
According to him, this is a major achievement, noting that the total length of paved roads in Kenya is greater than the combined tarmac road networks of several East African countries, including Uganda and Tanzania.
Ruto further stated that the government is not slowing down on infrastructure development. He announced that there are plans to construct an additional 28,000 kilometres of tarmac roads within the next seven years.
This ambitious target, he said, is part of a broader plan to improve connectivity, boost trade, and make movement of goods and people more efficient across the country.
He emphasised that the taxes included in fuel prices are designed to directly benefit the economy. Better roads, he explained, reduce travel time, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and improve access to markets, which in turn supports businesses and economic growth.
The President’s explanation comes shortly after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced a sharp increase in fuel prices earlier in the month.
On April 14, pump prices rose to more than Ksh206 per litre for both petrol and diesel, causing public concern.
The prices were later adjusted slightly, with petrol now retailing at around Ksh197.60 per litre and diesel at about Ksh196.63 per litre for the current pricing cycle.
These increases have triggered widespread debate among Kenyans, many of whom have been comparing local fuel prices with those in neighbouring countries.
In Uganda, petrol is currently selling at approximately Ksh185 to Ksh190 per litre, while diesel ranges between Ksh175 and Ksh183. In Tanzania, petrol averages around Ksh191 per litre, while diesel costs about Ksh190.
As the discussion continues, Ruto’s remarks are expected to spark further debate, especially among Kenyans who are feeling the pressure of the high cost of living.
While the government insists that the pricing structure supports long-term development, many citizens are still calling for more immediate relief at the pump.
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