Millions of Kenyans preparing for the annual Christmas migration upcountry have been spared a festive season price shock after the energy regulator opted to maintain current fuel prices.

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority’s (EPRA) decision to freeze pump prices for the next 30 days offers critical stability just as household budgets tighten for holiday celebrations and the looming January school fees crunch. By holding the line, the regulator has effectively forestalled a potential spike in public transport fares during the year's busiest travel window.

Stability at the Pump

According to the review released late Saturday, prices in the capital will remain unchanged from the previous cycle. This stability is expected to ripple across the country, calming fears of inflation in the transport of goods and passengers.

• Super Petrol: Retains at KES 184.52 per litre.
• Diesel: The lifeblood of the transport and agricultural sectors holds at KES 171.47.
• Kerosene: Crucial for cooking and lighting in many households, remains at KES 154.78.

“In the period under review, the maximum allowed petroleum pump prices for Super Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene remain unchanged,” EPRA confirmed in their statement, signaling a reprieve that extends until mid-January.

Global Volatility vs. Local Relief

The decision to hold prices steady comes despite a mixed bag of fortunes in the international market. EPRA data reveals a tug-of-war in global acquisition costs. While the landed cost of imported Super Petrol dipped by 4.25 percent to $592.84 (approx. KES 77,000) per cubic metre in November, other fuels saw a sharp uptick.

The regulator noted that the landed cost of diesel—critical for the heavy transport and manufacturing industries—rose by 3.02 percent to $654.24 (approx. KES 85,000) per cubic metre. Similarly, Kerosene import costs climbed by 5.52 percent to $667.05 (approx. KES 86,700).

Ordinarily, such increases in landed costs would be passed on to the consumer. However, the regulator’s pricing formula has absorbed these shocks, ensuring that the burden of global market fluctuations does not dampen the holiday spirit. As the holiday exodus begins, this reprieve ensures that the cost of reaching the village does not eat further into the family feast.