Lawmakers have expressed concern over persistent fuel shortages at petrol stations despite confirmation of high fuel reserves at Kenya Pipeline Company storage depots.
The National Assembly Energy Committee, led by David Gikaria, on Tuesday inspected Kenya Pipeline Company facilities in Nairobi and Kisumu following widespread complaints from motorists across several counties.
Officials at the depots demonstrated automated monitoring systems showing real-time fuel levels. In Nairobi, tanks were shown holding millions of litres, including 10 million litres of diesel and more than 2.4 million litres of super petrol. Kisumu depots reported over 11 million litres of petrol and about 23 million litres of diesel.
After the inspection, MPs said the data and physical checks confirmed adequate national supply levels.
“We are satisfied that the country has enough fuel stock,” said Gikaria, noting that fuel was moving continuously through the system.
However, lawmakers questioned why shortages continue at petrol stations despite the high storage levels. Awendo MP John Walter Owino raised concerns about supply in parts of Nyanza, where motorists are unable to access fuel.
“Currently, as we speak, there is no fuel in Kisii, Nyamira and Migori. Can you show us the tanks in Kisumu to verify that there is fuel?” he asked.
Kenya Pipeline Company officials later confirmed the Kisumu stock levels after verification with records and physical inspection.
Even so, MPs said the difference between depot stocks and retail availability remains unclear and requires urgent explanation.
Some members suggested that oil marketers may be delaying supply to stations in anticipation of upcoming price changes by the energy regulator.
They called for tougher action against any companies found to be involved in hoarding or unfair pricing, saying current fines of Sh 10,000 to Sh 100,000 are too low to deter malpractice.
Concerns were also raised over fuel quality, with Nyatike MP Tom Odege saying he personally encountered contaminated fuel at a station in Kisii.
“I recently filled at a station in Kisii, and out of 40 litres, it was water. I want to know who is responsible for the damage caused,” he said.
Kenya Pipeline Company said its responsibility ends once fuel is discharged into transport tankers and advised that complaints be directed to the regulator with supporting documents.
Officials also confirmed that a rejected diesel consignment from One Petroleum was never introduced into the system after failing quality tests and was withdrawn.
With new fuel prices expected soon, MPs urged better use of the petroleum development levy to cushion consumers from global price fluctuations.
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