Vivo Energy Kenya has confirmed temporary fuel shortages at selected Shell stations, blaming increased demand.
The company says it is working to restore supply quickly while monitoring the situation.
The disruption highlights ongoing pressure in the fuel supply chain, with firms racing to maintain stability as consumers face intermittent stock-outs across parts of the country.
In a statement released on Thursday, the company sought to reassure customers and partners that efforts are underway to restore supply as quickly as possible.
“Vivo Energy Kenya would like to update our customers and partners on the current fuel supply situation across our Shell service station network,” the company said.
The firm attributed the shortages to a surge in demand, which has placed pressure on available stocks at selected outlets.
“We have recently experienced increased demand for our products, which has resulted in temporary stock-outs at some service stations,” the statement said.
The development comes amid growing concerns over fuel availability in parts of Kenya, with consumers in some areas reporting difficulty accessing petrol and diesel.
The debate comes against the backdrop of fuel shortages in Kenya which is increasingly linked to global supply disruptions triggered by the ongoing 2026 Iran war, which has destabilised energy markets worldwide.
The conflict has disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a key corridor that carries about 20% of global oil supply, leading to sharp price increases and supply constraints.
In Kenya, the impact has been direct. Industry data shows that about 20% of fuel stations have experienced shortages, with dealers struggling to maintain supply amid rising import costs and price controls.
The war has pushed global crude prices above Sh14,300 per barrel, increasing the cost of imports for fuel-dependent economies like Kenya.
Analysts also warn that uncertainty has triggered stock-hoarding and panic buying, further tightening supply at the local level.
However, Vivo Energy Kenya emphasized that the situation is being actively managed, with teams working around the clock to replenish affected stations.
“Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and working continuously to replenish affected sites as quickly as possible,” the company said.
Fuel supply disruptions can have a ripple effect across the economy, affecting transport, logistics and other essential services that rely on consistent access to petroleum products.
The company acknowledged the inconvenience caused to customers and businesses, while reiterating its commitment to maintaining reliable service.
“We appreciate your continued patronage and apologize for the inconveniences caused by this and remain fully committed to serving our customers reliably,” the statement said.
The company also highlighted the importance of its service station network in supporting critical sectors, noting that ensuring consistent supply remains a priority.
It added that it is taking steps to ensure that “our service stations and the essential services that depend on us stay supplied.”
While the company did not specify the number of affected stations or the expected timeline for full restoration, the assurance comes as authorities and industry players continue to monitor the broader fuel supply situation.
The government of Kenya through the Ministry of Energy maintained that Kenya’s fuel supply remains stable despite reports of shortages, attributing the situation to panic buying and possible stock withholding by some oil marketers.
Speaking on March 25, 2026, Energy CS, Opiyo Wandayi, said “the supply chain is intact and Kenya's petroleum reserves are at the required level,” noting that the country holds millions of litres of petrol, diesel and kerosene sufficient for national demand.
He warned against hoarding, describing it as “commercially opportunistic” and a breach of regulations, and urged companies to release fuel to the market.
The CS also appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid panic buying, insisting there was “no shortage of fuel in the country” despite global supply disruptions linked to the Middle East crisis.