Kenya is facing a significant fuel scandal involving the importation of substandard petrol containing excessive sulphur and manganese. These contaminants can severely damage vehicle engines and emission control systems.

• The imported fuel exceeded EAC standards, with sulphur at 0.0043% (limit 0.001%), benzene at 2.79% (limit 1%), and manganese at 36.5 mg/kg (limit 2 mg/kg).
• Investigations are focusing on potential failures in the Energy Cabinet Secretary's ministry and related government officials.
• This off-spec fuel poses risks of increased emissions, reduced fuel economy, and costly engine repairs for Kenyan motorists, particularly affecting used imported vehicles sensitive to fuel quality.

Petrol and diesel prices are on the rise again, despite a ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, due to ongoing concerns about its durability and its impact on oil supplies.

• Fuel prices remain significantly higher than pre-war levels, with wholesale oil prices jumping by 35% since the conflict began on February 28.
• Motoring groups like the RAC and AA are warning drivers not to expect immediate price drops.
• Doubts over the ceasefire emerged after Israel launched strikes on Lebanon, threatening the safe passage of ships through the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

The Competition Authority of Kenya has issued a stern warning to oil marketing companies against hoarding and anti-competitive practices amidst ongoing fuel shortages across the country.

• The CAK is monitoring the fuel sector for selective supply and artificial scarcity, threatening stiff penalties including up to 10 percent of a company's gross annual turnover or up to five years in jail.
• Key organizations involved are the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) and the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
• Despite assurances of adequate national stocks from the Kenya Pipeline Company, motorists in areas like Nairobi and Eldoret are facing long queues and dry pumps, with retailers suspected of withholding fuel for higher margins.

A fuel shortage in Mombasa has forced car importers to shift from road to rail transport for vehicle deliveries, raising concerns about increased congestion at the port and along supply chains.

• Car importers are now using the Metre Gauge Railway to transport vehicles to inland areas like Nairobi and Naivasha.
• Peter Otieno, chairman of the Car Importers Association of Kenya, stated this is a "new norm" to manage costs and ensure delivery.
• The shortage impacts an estimated 3,500 trucks that pick up cargo daily at the Mombasa port, a critical regional logistics hub for countries including Uganda and South Sudan.