By Robai Ludenyi
The government has increased the support it gives to diesel in order to prevent fuel prices from rising sharply. In the latest review of fuel prices, officials decided to raise the amount of money used to cushion diesel users to a new level of two shillings and thirty-three cents for every litre. This move comes at a time when the cost of importing fuel has been climbing, placing pressure on pump prices across the country.
For many Kenyans, diesel is not just another fuel. It is central to the daily running of the economy. Most public transport vehicles use diesel. Long-distance trucks that bring goods to shops and markets rely on it as well. Farmers depend on it for machines that prepare their land and for generators in places where electricity is unreliable. When diesel costs rise even slightly, the effect spreads quickly through the economy. Matatu fares go up, food transport becomes more expensive, and the price of everyday goods tends to increase as well.
By increasing the subsidy, the government is trying to protect citizens and businesses from these sudden cost increases. The idea is to keep fuel prices steady for now and avoid putting extra pressure on families who are already dealing with high living costs. For small businesses that use diesel every day, such as transport companies and construction workers, this decision offers temporary breathing space.
However, the move also raises important questions about how long such support can continue. Subsidies require significant amounts of money, and the government must balance this with other responsibilities such as health care, education, and infrastructure. Some experts say that relying on subsidies for too long could strain public finances. Others believe it is necessary to provide support for as long as global fuel prices remain unstable.
The government will continue watching global fuel markets to decide what steps to take in future reviews. For now, the increased subsidy offers a measure of stability at a time when many people are feeling financial pressure.
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The author is Robai Ludenyi. Journalist and Media Innovator