Fuel Fears Rise in Kenya as Global Tensions Push Oil Prices Up

Kenyans are starting to feel the heat of a distant conflict. Fuel queues are slowly forming. Prices are under pressure. The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) now warns that global shocks are hitting closer to home. Its latest bulletin shows how events in the Middle East are shaping local realities. Short supply fears are growing. Uncertainty is spreading across the energy market.

According to CBK, oil prices have remained high in recent days. The bank links this to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway carries a large share of the world’s oil. Even small disturbances can shake global supply. CBK noted, “International oil prices remained elevated amid disruptions.” It added that Murban crude rose from USD 95.91 per barrel to USD 97.99 within days. This steady rise is now being felt in Kenya.

But Iran has pushed back on claims of a full closure. Its embassy in Kenya insists the route is still open. “Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has not been suspended,” the statement read. However, it added a warning. Any vessels linked to hostile forces may face action under wartime measures. This mixed message has kept markets tense. Traders remain cautious. Prices continue to react.

Back in Kenya, the impact is already visible. Some fuel stations are running low. Oil marketers say supply chains have been affected. Imports from the Gulf region have slowed. Vivo Energy Kenya confirmed shortages in select outlets. At the same time, the government says there is enough fuel in the country. Officials blame panic buying and hoarding for the situation.

Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi has criticised some dealers. He accused them of holding back stock to benefit from price changes. This has added another layer to the crisis. Consumers are left confused. They see empty pumps in some places and reassurance from officials in others.

The situation remains fragile. Global politics, local supply chains and market behaviour are now tightly linked. For many Kenyans, the worry is simple. Will fuel remain available and affordable in the coming days?