Kenya experienced a notable increase in diesel and petrol consumption during the first half of 2026, even as fuel prices surged to record highs. Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) reveals that diesel usage climbed by 10.6% to 1.3 million tonnes, while petrol consumption grew by 8.5% to 866,170 tonnes compared to the same period last year.

The average monthly diesel consumption reached approximately 213,300 tonnes, a slight rise from 210,300 tonnes recorded during the first six months of 2025. Petrol demand also increased, averaging 144,360 tonnes per month, up from 133,050 tonnes in the previous year.

Rising Prices Amid Growing Demand

These consumption gains came despite sharp increases in pump prices, with both diesel and petrol prices surpassing the Sh200 per litre threshold for the first time. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) set Nairobi’s retail prices for super petrol at Sh214.03 per litre, diesel at Sh217.86, and kerosene at Sh191.38 in its pricing cycle running through mid-September 2026.

Diesel prices averaged Sh192.77 per litre in the first half of the year, marking a 15.8% rise from Sh166.48 in 2025. Similarly, super petrol prices increased by 10.2% to about Sh194.87 per litre from Sh176.76 the previous year. These hikes were most pronounced in May and June, influenced by geopolitical tensions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Factors Behind Steady Fuel Consumption

  • Diesel demand stability: Diesel is essential for commercial transport, agriculture, and industrial activities, sectors with limited fuel alternatives, sustaining demand despite price increases.
  • Petrol usage linked to mobility: Petrol is primarily used in private vehicles and motorcycles, with consumption tied closely to household and road transport needs.
  • Global oil price impact: Rising international crude prices contributed to local pump price increases, yet consumption remained robust.

Unlike the 2023 period when fuel consumption dropped sharply following VAT hikes and subsidy removals, the current data suggests that higher prices have had a limited dampening effect on fuel use so far.