Bonfires blaze across streets as Kenyans protest rising fuel prices

Thousands of commuters were stranded across Nairobi after a nationwide public transport strike triggered protests over soaring fuel prices in Kenya, as reported by The Associated Press on May 18th.

Demonstrators blocked major roads on May 18th and burned tires as anger mounted over record-high diesel and gasoline costs.

The strike left much of the Kenyan capital unusually quiet, with many residents unable or unwilling to travel. Private motorists largely stayed home amid fears of unrest, while several suburbs experienced major transport disruptions throughout the day.

Schools were also affected by the protests. The Kenya Association of Private Schools urged members to assess student safety before opening, prompting many institutions to switch to online learning temporarily.

This unrest follows the announcement on May 15th of steep fuel price increases, with diesel costs rising by 23.5% and gasoline prices climbing by 8%, according to national pricing authorities. The increases have intensified concerns over Kenya’s rising cost of living and the growing financial pressure on households and businesses.

President William Ruto, who is currently abroad, has not publicly addressed the latest price hikes. During a previous fuel review in April, he linked rising costs to instability connected to the Iran conflict and introduced tax reductions aimed at limiting further increases.

Business leaders have warned that the higher fuel costs are likely to affect nearly every sector of the economy. The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the increases would raise the prices of goods and services nationwide, arguing that domestic costs — not just global oil prices — are contributing heavily to the surge.

Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua accused corrupt business interests of inflating fuel prices to increase profits. He also pointed to neighboring Uganda, where fuel prices remain lower despite the country relying on Kenyan ports for imports.

Kenya plays a central role in East African trade through the port city of Mombasa, making fuel costs a critical issue not only for local consumers but for regional commerce as well.

The Associated Press, Maghrebi.org