Public transport costs have spiked in multiple towns as an emerging fuel shortage starts to take hold, forcing operators to raise fares and placing additional pressure on commuters already dealing with high living costs.
Travellers along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway are among the most affected, with matatu operators sharply adjusting prices due to challenges in accessing fuel supplies.
In Nakuru, fares that typically averaged Ksh 450 have climbed to nearly Ksh700, reflecting the strain caused by supply disruptions and rising operational expenses.
One operator explained that the fare adjustments were unavoidable given the current conditions. “We have increased fares because of the shortages and the difficulties in sourcing fuel. Normally, we charge around Ksh450 from Nakuru to Nairobi, but currently the fare stands at about Ksh600,” the operator said during an interview at a petrol station in Nakuru CBD on Tuesday, April 7.
The situation continues to evolve as transport providers struggle to balance operating costs with affordability for passengers.