The government has put in place measures to prevent a fuel shortage in the country as a result of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East between Israel and Iran.
The head of state President William Ruto has said that the government is in discussion with regional partners on the best way to cushion citizens from the impacts of the war.
“I have tasked the Ministry of Energy to take the lead to work with all our suppliers, to work with the oil producers that are supplying us and to find, if necessary, alternative sources that would mitigate any shortages,” directed the President.
The President’s assertions comes in the wake of sentiments by energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi who had downplayed a fuel shortage in the country instead blaming Oil Marketing Companies(OMC’s) for hoarding to make profit when prices eventually rise.
The head of state has issued a stern warning to oil marketers against hoarding products in anticipation of a price hike.
“We have also been very clear to our oil marketers and those who have storage capabilities that the government of Kenya is not going to entertain any artificial shortages that are meant to benefit profiteers,” warned President Ruto.
Several areas across the country have recorded fuel shortage with Vivo energy the operator of Shell petrol station, acknowledging stock outs as a result of increased demand.
Vivo Energy; the company managing Shell Peterol stations in the country has since admitted to a shortage in supply at its stations that has been occasioned by a rise in demand.
