Kenya Pipeline Company has moved to defend the stability of the country’s fuel supply system, presenting detailed import and storage data to the Senate Energy Committee as scrutiny intensifies over petroleum flows and the handling of questionable cargo.
Appearing before the committee, Acting Managing Director Pius Mwendwa gave a breakdown of petroleum imports for the first quarter of 2026, saying the variations recorded in volumes were driven by predictable shifts in demand linked to seasonal consumption patterns and recovery in key sectors.
He told senators that January 2026 recorded lower imports of 297,830 cubic metres, attributing the drop to reduced demand after the festive season and the drawdown of existing stock within the system.
“Lower import volumes in January 2026 (297,830m³) reflect post-holiday demand correction and inventory drawdown,” the company explained on Tuesday, adding that consumption usually eases after the holiday period.
Data tabled before the committee showed that Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) remained the leading imported product, driven by its heavy use in transport and industrial activity across the country.
“AGO imports consistently dominate supply, aligning with its role in transport and industry,” Pius noted.
Jet A-1 fuel, however, showed sharp fluctuations during the same period, with a marked increase in February 2026 linked to renewed activity in aviation and early stock building by market players.
“Jet A-1 imports show significant volatility, with a sharp spike in February 2026 (191,333m³), likely reflecting aviation sector recovery and forward stocking,” Mwendwa stated.
KPC also presented stock position reports covering February, March, and April 2026, including depot-level storage data as requested by the Senate committee.
In February, Motor Spirit Premium stood at 151,576 cubic metres, AGO at 96,532 cubic metres, and Jet A-1 at 177,000 cubic metres, bringing total inflows to 425,108 cubic metres.
“Petroleum products received for the month of February 2026 were recorded as follows Motor Spirit Premium (MSP) stood at 151,576 cubic metres, AGO at 96,532 cubic metres, and Jet A-1 at 177,000 cubic metres, bringing the total to 425,108 cubic metres.” Pius said.
For March 2026, MSP was 181,069 cubic metres and AGO 86,495 cubic metres, while Jet A-1 figures were partly captured in the records presented to lawmakers.
“In April 2026, MSP stood at 188,160 cubic metres, AGO at 94,315 cubic metres, and Jet A-1 at 304,970 cubic metres, giving a total of 587,445 cubic metres.”
The company maintained that its storage network is designed to cushion the country against supply disruptions and maintain steady fuel availability even during periods of global market instability.
However, senators pressed the agency for clarity on how substandard petroleum cargo is handled once identified within the supply chain, particularly on issues of disposal, destruction, or return.
In response, Mwendwa said responsibility lies with the cargo owner, who must work together with regulators and other relevant agencies.
“The disposal, destruction, or return of substandard petroleum cargo falls under the mandate of the product owner responsible for the petroleum, working in collaboration with sector regulators and other relevant government agencies.”
On the MT Paloma case, he said the importer had already been directed to remove the cargo from the pipeline system, with discussions ongoing on how to implement the directive.
“The owner of the cargo aboard MT Paloma was instructed to exit the product from KPC system,’’ adding, “Discussions are currently underway to determine the modalities of implementation of this directive.”
He further clarified that all costs linked to the removal of such cargo are not borne by the pipeline company.
“Any costs associated with the removal of substandard petroleum products are borne by the importer responsible for the cargo in line with established commercial and regulatory requirements.”
The Senate Energy Committee continues its review of the country’s fuel supply framework, with the Kenya Pipeline Company’s submissions expected to inform possible reforms on energy security and consumer protection.