Nationwide Transport Strike Disrupts Kenya
Thousands of commuters in Kenya have been stranded and business activities disrupted as public transport operators initiated a nationwide strike in response to recent fuel price hikes.
Key roads in Nairobi, the capital city, remained largely deserted, compelling some commuters to walk to their workplaces. Other regions across the country have also experienced significant transport disruptions. Several businesses in parts of Nairobi remained closed, and schools advised students to stay home.
Local television footage on Monday depicted protesters blocking roads and setting fires as part of the strike action.
Fuel Price Increases Trigger Protest
The strike follows a recent government decision to raise petroleum prices to record highs, with increases exceeding 20%.
Kenya, similar to many African nations, depends heavily on fuel imports from the Gulf region. This supply chain has been affected by the US-Israel conflict involving Iran that began on 28 February. Although a ceasefire has been declared, fuel prices remain elevated due to the continued blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil is transported.
Clashes and Security Measures
In Nairobi and other parts of the country, police confronted protesters, employing tear gas to disperse crowds amid reports of demonstrators stopping and harassing motorists.
Prior to the strike, police assured the public that security arrangements would be in place and cautioned against any disruptive behavior.
Transport Sector Alliance Calls for Shutdown
The Transport Sector Alliance (TSA), representing transport operators, had called on all vehicle users—including private motorists, public transport buses (known locally as matatus), and truck drivers—to refrain from using the roads as part of a coordinated shutdown.
"This action is not only for transport operators, but for every Kenyan citizen,"
the TSA stated.
The alliance accused the government of insufficient measures to protect Kenyans from rising fuel costs amid a broader cost-of-living crisis. It has demanded the reversal of the recent price increases and called for fuel prices to be reduced by approximately 35%.
Regulatory Price Adjustments
On Thursday, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra) raised fuel prices to 242 shillings ($1.8; £1.4) per litre for diesel and $1.65 per litre for petrol.
Government Response
Treasury Minister John Mbadi acknowledged the economic impact of the fuel price increase during an interview with local NTV station on Monday, describing the hike as "unfortunate."
"Why are we trying to solve a global problem using domestic means?"
he questioned, while also stating that the strike was "completely uncalled for" and emphasizing that government decisions would be "informed and not emotional."
Impact on Cost of Living
The elevated fuel prices have been linked to rising costs of food and other essential goods and services. Public service vehicles have already increased commuter fares in response.
Last month, the government reduced the value-added tax (VAT) on fuel from 16% to 8% until July; however, calls for further interventions continue.
Additional Information
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