Ruto Explains Why Fuel Prices in Kenya Are Higher Than Tanzania and Uganda
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President William Ruto has finally explained why fuel prices in Kenya are higher than in neighbouring countries such as Tanzania and Uganda.
Speaking during a church service in Karen on Sunday, April 19, the President said the difference comes from Kenya’s economic level and the cost of maintaining roads across the country.
According to Ruto, Kenya is classified as a middle-income country, while some of its East African neighbours are considered least developed countries.
He said this makes it unfair to compare Kenya directly with countries like Uganda and Tanzania.
Ruto noted that if Kenyans want a fair comparison, they should compare Kenya with other middle-income countries instead of less developed nations.
The President also said part of the money paid for fuel goes towards road maintenance.
According to him, Kenya currently maintains more than 20,000 kilometres of tarmac roads, with another 6,000 kilometres under construction.
He added that this road network is larger than the combined tarmac roads in some neighbouring East African countries.
Ruto said the taxes and levies included in fuel prices help the government improve transport infrastructure, boost business movement, and support trade.
He further revealed that the government plans to build an additional 28,000 kilometres of tarmac roads within the next seven years.
The remarks come at a time when many Kenyans have raised concerns over the rising cost of fuel.
Recently, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) increased fuel prices, pushing petrol and diesel prices above KSh 206 per litre before later revising them slightly.
The current pump prices now stand at around KSh 197.60 for petrol and KSh 196.63 for diesel.
Many Kenyans have been comparing these prices with those in Uganda and Tanzania, where fuel is currently selling at lower rates.
In Uganda, petrol is retailing at about KSh 185 to KSh 190 per litre, while diesel ranges between KSh 175 and KSh 183.
In Tanzania, petrol averages around KSh 191, while diesel is about KSh 190 per litre.
The high fuel prices continue to raise the cost of transport and the prices of basic goods across the country.
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