Kenya experienced widespread disruption on Monday after demonstrations broke out in Nairobi during a nationwide public transport strike triggered by rising fuel prices and worsening living conditions.
Thousands of commuters were left stranded throughout the capital as protesters set tyres ablaze on major roads, causing severe traffic disruptions and forcing many residents to remain indoors. Some schools also moved classes online after safety concerns led education authorities to urge parents and school officials to evaluate conditions before allowing students to attend lessons physically.
One protester, Brighton Kombo, accused the government of failing ordinary citizens, saying the sharp increase in fuel prices had made daily life much more difficult and severely affected people’s ability to earn a living.
The protests erupted shortly after authorities announced significant fuel price increases on Friday. Diesel prices jumped by 23.5 percent, while petrol prices rose by 8 percent, pushing fuel costs to historic levels.
Another demonstrator, Hesbon Manyura, said many Kenyans are struggling to survive as the high cost of living makes basic necessities such as food and clothing increasingly unaffordable.
The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry warned that the latest fuel price adjustments are likely to increase the cost of goods and services across the country, placing additional financial strain on both households and businesses.
President William Ruto, who is currently outside the country, has not yet issued a public response regarding the fuel price hikes.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua blamed the situation on corruption, questioning why fuel prices in Kenya remain higher than those in neighbouring Uganda despite Kenya serving as East Africa’s primary fuel import gateway through the Port of Mombasa.