Fuel shortages are disrupting truck operations across Kenya, with transporters warning that access to diesel has become unreliable despite official assurances of steady supply.
The Kenya Transporters Association, in a letter dated Wednesday, April 8, 2026, has called for urgent intervention from key institutions in the energy sector, including the Government of Kenya, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, the Kenya Pipeline Company, and oil marketing companies.
According to the association, transporters are being turned away from fuel stations or limited to small quantities, forcing them to move from one station to another to keep trucks running, a situation that is disrupting planning and long-distance deliveries.
“Over the past several days, Transporters across the country, particularly those operating along key logistics corridors, have reported widespread fuel rationing, refusal by marketers to supply in bulk, and a complete withdrawal of credit facilities by oil marketing companies,” KTA said.
The association said the decision by oil marketers to withdraw credit has left many operators struggling, as they are now required to make cash payments even as profit margins remain tight.
KTA said there is a clear gap between what authorities are saying about fuel availability and what transporters are experiencing on the ground.
“If indeed the country has sufficient fuel, then the market must reflect this reality immediately and consistently,” KTA stressed.
The group is now seeking answers on whether the shortage is caused by supply constraints, hoarding, or manipulation within the distribution chain.
It warned that the situation could worsen if not addressed, with possible effects on supply chains within Kenya and across the region.
KTA is also demanding full disclosure on national fuel stocks, saying industry players need accurate information instead of general assurances.
Among its demands is for oil marketing companies to resume bulk fuel supply and reinstate credit facilities for verified transporters who depend on them.
The shortage has affected at least 13 counties, with reports of dry fuel stations in the North Rift, Western, Central, and Coast regions, including Nairobi.
Eldoret has been among the hardest hit, with more than 20 stations closed, while motorists in Machakos, Embu, Isiolo, Nanyuki, and Mombasa are facing long queues or finding stations shut.
The association urged energy sector players to act quickly, remain transparent, and avoid any arrangements that could put the country at risk, especially amid tensions in the Middle East.
“This situation must be addressed urgently; otherwise, it risks escalating into a full-blown logistics crisis with national and regional consequences,” KTA cautioned.