President William Ruto has explained why Kenyans pay higher fuel prices than neighbours like Tanzania and Uganda. He attributed the difference to Kenya's status as a middle-income country and heavy investments in road infrastructure. Ruto spoke during a church service in Karen on Sunday.
President William Ruto attributed Kenya's higher fuel prices to substantial investments in infrastructure, particularly roads. He addressed the issue during a church service in Karen on April 19, 2026.
"Many people keep asking why prices in Kenya differ from those in our neighbouring countries. It is important to clarify that Kenya is a middle-income country, while many of our neighbours are classified as least developed countries, and that creates a significant difference," Ruto said. He added, "If you want to compare Kenya fairly with others, compare Kenya with other middle-income countries."
Ruto explained that a large portion of fuel prices funds road maintenance, with Kenya sustaining over 20,000 kilometres of tarmac roads—more than the combined total in other East African Community nations. Another 6,000 kilometres are under construction, and plans call for 28,000 more over the next seven years.
The remarks follow public concerns after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority raised pump prices above Ksh206 per litre on April 14, later revised to Ksh197.60 for petrol and Ksh196.63 for diesel. Uganda sells petrol at Ksh185–190 and diesel at Ksh175–183 per litre, while Tanzania averages Ksh191 for petrol and Ksh190 for diesel.
