Oil & Gas

A nationwide public transport strike in Nairobi over rising fuel prices was suspended on Tuesday after the Kenyan government reached a temporary agreement with associations representing bus and minibus operators. The strike had been triggered by increased fuel costs linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, which has affected global oil prices and raised the cost of living across the country.

On Monday, protests connected to the strike turned violent, leaving four people dead and around 30 others injured, according to Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen. Demonstrations spread nationwide as citizens expressed frustration over increasing transport fares and the rising prices of essential goods.

Following discussions between the government and transport operators, authorities announced that the strike would be suspended for one week to allow further negotiations. Although the government agreed to reduce diesel prices by about 10 Kenyan shillings per litre, transport operators argued that the reduction was insufficient and demanded a larger cut of 46 shillings per litre. Energy Minister Opiyo Wandayi stated that the current reduction would cost the government approximately 2.7 billion Kenyan shillings in lost revenue.

Despite the suspension announcement, transport services remained disrupted in several parts of Kenya on Tuesday morning, forcing many commuters to walk long distances or pay significantly higher fares. Some schools were also closed. Security presence remained heavy in Nairobi after protesters blocked roads and clashed with police, who used tear gas to disperse crowds.