Traders at Wakulima Market in Nairobi have warned of imminent increases in food prices as transport costs surge following recent fuel price hikes.
Traders dealing in tomatoes, potatoes, onions and cabbage said transporters now spend nearly Ksh10,000 more per trip. This follows the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which raised petrol prices by Ksh16.65 per litre and diesel prices by Ksh46.29 per litre.
One driver noted that a 100-litre fill now costs over Ksh20,000. The higher expenses are expected to be passed on to consumers. A spot check showed the price of a bucket of potatoes has already risen from Ksh700 to Ksh800.
Traders also warned that tomato and onion prices could rise by an additional Ksh20 per kilogram if costs continue to climb. Transport operations across the country are scheduled to face disruption on Monday, May 18, due to a planned nationwide strike protesting the fuel price increases.