Commuters hit as matatus raise fares by 25 percent
Many Kenyans who rely on public transport faced higher travel costs starting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, after matatu operators announced a 25 percent increase in fares across the country.
The decision came directly after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority raised the price of diesel by more than 40 shillings per litre, pushing it above 206 shillings. Most matatus run on diesel, and operators said the sharp rise in fuel costs left them with no choice but to adjust fares to keep their businesses running.
Albert Karakacha, chairman of the Matatu Owners Association, explained the move after wide consultations with members. “Most matatus use diesel. We’ve consulted widely with our members and agreed on increasing fares by 25 percent,” he said. He added that it was not what they wanted and urged passengers to understand the situation. Karakacha also called on the government to bring back earlier fuel subsidies, saying this would help lower the overall cost of fuel and ease the burden on both operators and the travelling public.
The increase has left many commuters feeling frustrated and worried. Peter Murima, chairman of the Motorists Association of Kenya, expressed the public’s disappointment, noting that diesel powers much of the transport sector. “We are shocked, angry and we feel betrayed. Diesel is the backbone of transport. This will affect the business sector immensely,” he said. For daily travellers heading to work, school, or markets in cities like Nairobi and other towns, the extra cost adds to an already difficult time marked by rising living expenses.
This latest adjustment in transport fares is expected to have wider effects on the economy. Higher costs for moving people and goods could lead to small increases in the prices of food and other basic items in the coming days and weeks. While the government had earlier taken measures such as lowering taxes on fuel and using special funds to cushion the impact, many operators and passengers hope for more lasting solutions to keep transport affordable. The situation highlights how closely fuel prices are tied to the daily lives of ordinary Kenyans who depend on matatus for their movements.
