Matatu fares to increase by 30% from tomorrow

According to Matatu Owners Association (MOA) chairman Michael Kariuki, fare prices will shoot up by 30 percent across various routes including those operating within town areas and long distances.

"We announce with regret that due to fuel prices going up, the sharp increase in fuel cost together with an increase on cost of spare parts, loan interest among others," he said during a press address on Tuesday. 

"After careful considerations, MOA has determined that fare adjustment is necessary. The decision to effect this hike was not taken lightly however it's essential to strike the balance."

The prices shot up after the Energy and Petroleum Authority (EPRA) reviewed the price of super petrol, diesel and kerosene by a whopping Ksh.13.49, Ksh.12.39 and Ksh.11.96 respectively following a VAT increment on fuel from 8% to 16%.

The increment was included in the contentious Finance Act 2023, which has been assented into law by President William Ruto.

The increment has seen super petrol selling at Ksh.195.53 and diesel and kerosene selling at Ksh.179.67 and Ksh.173.44 respectively.

The increase in fuel prices is expected to have a significant impact on the cost of living in the country with the rate of inflation expected to go up as a result of this.

Critical sectors such as manufacturing , transport and distribution will be affected with the increase in fuel prices.