Amid growing tensions over the Middle East conflict, the Government of Kenya has assured citizens that it has put in place several measures to curb the crisis's spillover effects.
In a statement on March 30, 2026, President William Ruto said he held a comprehensive briefing on Monday from the Ministries of Energy, Agriculture, Trade, the National Treasury, the Central Bank, as well as private sector players on the situation and possible recommendations on the way forward.
President Ruto admitted the crisis is having a significant impact on the global economy, adding that it is already being felt across global supply chains and is placing pressure on economies worldwide.
“Africa, including Kenya, is not immune to these effects,” Ruto said.
Ruto said his administration has put in place measures to ensure that Kenya maintains adequate fuel supplies.
“Rising international oil prices are already affecting consumers globally. However, the Government-to-Government fuel procurement arrangement has cushioned Kenyans from immediate shocks,” he said.
“This strategic intervention has mitigated price increases, ensured security of supply, and proven to be both prudent and forward-looking.”
The Ministry of Energy, he explained, continues to monitor international fuel prices and identify possible responses, working with the National Treasury on interventions.
This comes as US President Donald Trump raised the prospect of the US taking Iran’s oil in an interview with the Financial Times.
Speaking on Sunday, Trump told the newspaper that his “preference would be to take the oil,” as he weighs whether to seize Iran’s key fuel export hub at Kharg Island. He likened the potential move to the US ambitions to control Venezuela’s oil industry following the capture of its leader Nicolás Maduro in January.
Global oil prices jumped and stocks fell sharply on Monday in Asia after the US-Israel war with Iran entered its fifth week.
The price of Brent crude rose overnight by more than 3% to above $115 (£86.77) a barrel. It later eased slightly to around $113 but is still on track for its biggest monthly gain on record.
On fertiliser, President Ruto said no disruptions are expected, noting that there are sufficient supplies to support the current rainy season through to September.
On trade, while some key exports, particularly tea, were expected to face challenges in certain markets, performance has remained steady. Data shows that 81% of tea offered for auction was exported this month, up from 75% in March 2025.
There has also been increased activity at the ports of Port of Mombasa and Port of Lamu, Ruto said.
The Port of Lamu, in particular, has handled over 4,000 high-value motor vehicles bound for Gulf markets.
However, he added that meat exports have been affected by logistical and freight challenges, with the Ministries of Trade and Agriculture expected to explore alternatives to support the sector.
"The Government remains committed to closely monitoring developments and taking decisive action to safeguard the economic well-being of all Kenyans," he concluded.