Matatu operators announce 25% fare hike following sharp fuel price increase

Addressing the media, Matatu Owners Association President Albert Karakacha said the fare adjustment takes effect immediately and will apply to both short and long-distance travel.

“We have agreed that we are going to increase matatu fares by 25 per cent across the country. Our income is going to go down, and we urge our customers to bear with us,” Karakacha said.

He further called on the government to reintroduce fuel subsidies to cushion operators and commuters, while also urging authorities to address alleged cartels within the energy sector.

“There is a need for the government to bring back subsidies and deal with cartels affecting fuel pricing,” he added.

The announcement follows concern from transport stakeholders over what they described as a steep and abrupt increase in fuel prices.

Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) Chairman Peter Murima said the sector was “shocked and angered” by the move, accusing the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and the government of implementing the hike without adequate consultation.

“We have called this briefing in solidarity. We are shocked, very angry, and feel betrayed by EPRA and the government. The increase was effected late at night, with fuel prices rising significantly,” Murima said.

He warned that the increase, which he said represents a sharp rise in diesel prices, will have a direct impact on transport costs.

“This is going to completely hamper transport. The sector will not bear the burden alone; consumers will feel the pinch,” he added.

Murima further claimed that previous assurances from Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi that fuel prices would remain stable had not been honoured.

“The CS had assured us of sufficient fuel reserves, but what we are seeing now is the highest increase in fuel prices in recent times,” he said.

He also questioned the justification for the price hike, noting that global oil prices alone do not automatically warrant such adjustments.

“Global prices are around 100 US dollars per barrel, which does not necessarily guarantee such a sharp increase locally,” he stated.

Murima added that fuel price movements in neighbouring countries, including Uganda, had not seen comparable spikes, raising further concerns among stakeholders.