Fuel prices are falling. Not by much, but they are falling. In Kenya, good news always comes in miniature form, like hotel soap bars or sugar sachets on regional flights. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced a reduction in fuel prices valid from January 15 to February 14, 2026. A month's respite, more psychological than economic, but still.
The cut is one of those that make the news without performing miracles: minus two shillings per liter for premium gasoline, minus one for diesel and kerosene. In Nairobi, a full tank of premium gasoline drops to 182.52 shillings per liter, diesel to 170.47 and kerosene to 153.78. Until yesterday, and for a good three months, they were 184.52, 171.47, and 154.78 respectively. A difference that does not change lives, but at least changes the sign at the pump.
The coast, as is often the case, is doing slightly better. Mombasa has the lowest prices among the major cities: 179.24 shillings for gasoline, 167.19 for diesel, and 150.49 for kerosene. Kisumu, on the other hand, continues to pay the price for its geography and logistics: in the western region, super petrol is flying at 190.88 shillings, diesel at 178.83 and kerosene at 162.13. In Nakuru and Eldoret, prices remain more in line with the national average, with no shocks or surprises.
Behind the reduction is a word that sounds almost exotic in Kenya: strengthening of the shilling. In recent months, the local currency has shown some resilience, moving from around 132 to 128 shillings per dollar. This is an appreciation of around 3%, which plays its part on imported products paid for in dollars, such as fuel.
 
In addition, the government is optimistic about inflation data, which at least is not rising, and about projections for the ratio of GDP to domestic debt.
These are prospects that, while they may not change the diet of polenta and beans for most of the population, may attract loans, investments, and medium-term projects, which may lead to jobs. In short, the tusker is hot and flat, but at least the glass is half full.

EPRA explains that the average cost of landing petroleum products decreased during the review period, contributing directly to lower prices at the pump.
The cost of importing premium gasoline, for example, fell from about 73,800 shillings per cubic meter to just over 71,500 in January 2026. Diesel and kerosene also recorded declines, albeit more modest ones. These figures include FOB prices, maritime transport, and insurance: the entire invisible supply chain that weighs on the wallet long before the fuel reaches the tanks.
For families and businesses, this is a breath of fresh air, albeit a brief one. Less fuel means, at least on paper, lower transport costs and a slight easing of pressure on food and consumer goods prices. However, economists urge caution: two shillings per liter is not enough to reverse the trend of inflation, especially after a year of cumulative increases that have left their mark.
EPRA promises constant vigilance and monthly adjustments based on international markets and local conditions. Translated: if the dollar recovers or oil prices rise, the price at the pump will go back up without too much regret. For now, Kenya is enjoying this small seasonal discount, aware that gasoline prices here rarely fall and always rise with great enthusiasm.