Passengers using ENA Coach will now pay more for long-distance travel after the bus company increased fares across major routes, citing higher fuel costs following the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
The new fares as announced on Wednesday which took effect immediately, affect key routes linking Nairobi, Mombasa and several upcountry destinations, signalling a rise in travel costs for many commuters.
Under the revised pricing, a trip between Nairobi and Mombasa now costs Sh2,000. Passengers travelling from Nairobi to upcountry towns will pay Sh1,700 when using the Narok route and Sh1,800 via Nakuru.
The Kisii to Kisumu route has been set at Sh700, while those travelling between Mombasa and upcountry destinations will now part with Sh3,000.
In a notice issued on Wednesday, the company said the adjustment followed an internal review of its operations in light of changing economic conditions.
“Following the recent fuel price review announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), we have undertaken a careful operational assessment and implemented a necessary adjustment to our fare structure to sustain service quality across all routes,” the company said.
The firm noted that the changes apply across its main routes, which connect major urban centres and regional towns.
“These adjustments take effect immediately,” the company said.
ENA Coach acknowledged the burden the new fares may place on customers but said the move was unavoidable to keep its services running efficiently.
“We fully understand the impact of cost changes on our customers, and this decision has been made with great consideration and responsibility,” the company said.
It added that maintaining service standards remains a top priority despite the rising cost of operations.
“Our commitment remains unwavering to ensure safety, operational excellence, and provision of exemplary services,” the statement continued.
The fare hike comes amid rising fuel prices, which continue to drive up operating costs in the transport sector. Fuel is one of the biggest expenses for bus companies, and any increase often leads to higher passenger charges.
The latest EPRA review has pushed fuel prices up, placing additional pressure on transport operators to adjust fares in order to sustain service delivery.
ENA Coach’s decision reflects a wider trend across the industry, where transport providers are reviewing their pricing in response to increased fuel costs.
For commuters, especially those travelling between major towns and cities, the new fares mean higher daily and long-distance travel expenses, adding to the overall cost of living.