Public transport providers in several parts of Kenya suspended operations as anger grew over the rising cost of fuel, possibly caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East causing the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, which is a major oil passage to a lot of African countries, including Kenya. Operators say that this has made business unsustainable and pushed transport costs beyond the reach of ordinary citizens.
The strike heavily affected Nairobi and other major urban centers, where long queues formed at bus stops while many workers and students struggled to reach schools, offices and businesses.
Some schools reportedly advised students to stay home due to transportation difficulties caused by the strike.
In Nairobi, petrol prices have risen to around 214 Kenyan shillings per litre. In comparison, diesel prices climbed to approximately 242 shillings per litre, adding further pressure to the cost of living in East Africa’s largest economy.
Transport operators argue the increases have raised operating costs for buses, minibuses and commercial vehicles, while passengers themselves are already struggling with higher food and housing prices.
The protests mainly involve matatu operators, who form the backbone of Kenya’s public transport system and transport millions of passengers daily.
Several transport associations warned that unless the government intervenes quickly, the disruptions could continue and spread further across the country.
The latest strike adds to growing economic frustration in Kenya, where rising fuel costs have become politically sensitive under President William Ruto’s administration.
Critics accuse the government of failing to shield ordinary citizens from the impact of global oil price increases and regional economic pressures, while supporters argue the country has little choice but to adjust fuel prices according to international market conditions.
The rising prices are also affecting food distribution, small businesses and manufacturing sectors, increasing fears of wider inflation in the coming months.
By Monday afternoon, authorities had not announced whether talks with transport operators were underway, as commuters continued facing severe travel disruptions across several Kenyan cities.
