Schools suspended, business disrupted as protests expected over high fuel prices

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the Transport Sector Alliance said stakeholders in the sector had “unanimously reaffirmed” that no vehicle would move starting midnight ahead of the Transport Sector Fuel Strike scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026.

The group said the planned shutdown will involve passenger transport, cargo and logistics, ride-hailing services, motorcycle transport, tourism transport, driving schools, school buses and private motorists.

“The Alliance confirms that all transport subsectors… have resolved to stand together in one of the largest coordinated industrial actions in Kenya’s history,” the statement said.

The Alliance said the strike is meant to protest what it termed unaffordable fuel prices and harsh economic conditions, arguing that high pump prices are driving up the cost of transport, food, electricity and other essential commodities.

“This action is not only for transport operators, but for every Kenyan citizen. The ordinary mwananchi is the ultimate victim of high fuel prices,” the group said.

The planned strike follows the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority’s (EPRA) latest monthly fuel review in which the prices of Super Petrol and Diesel increased by Sh16.65 and Sh46.29 per litre, respectively.

The adjustments pushed the retail price of Super Petrol in Nairobi to Sh214.25 per litre, while Diesel rose to Sh242.92.

The Alliance called on private vehicle owners to participate, saying silence would amount to acceptance of high fuel prices, costly food, expensive fares and a shrinking economy.

It said demonstrations are expected in towns, shopping centres and local communities, with farmers and business owners encouraged to protest near their homes and premises.

The Alliance said the strike would take place across cities, municipalities, towns and trading centres nationwide, adding that the action would be peaceful and constitutional.

The shutdown is expected to disrupt business operations and movement across the country, with school administrators warning that transport challenges will make it difficult for learners to report for classes.