Kenya fuel prices hit record high as subsidy removed

As a result of the government partially eliminating subsidies that protected customers from the global increase in oil prices, the price of petrol in Kenya has increased to a new record high.

Late on Wednesday night, the energy regulator announced that it had eliminated the super fuel subsidy while keeping a lower subsidy for diesel and kerosene.

Super gasoline, which is primarily used by private drivers, would now cost around 179 shillings ($1.5; £1.3) per liter, up from 160 shillings, while diesel, which is used by transporters and industries, will cost 165 shillings in Nairobi, the country's capital.

It will cost roughly 148 shillings to purchase kerosene, which is primarily used by low-income homes for lighting and cooking.

In his inauguration address, President William Ruto stated that his administration will end fuel and food subsidies since they were expensive and ineffective.

However, because gasoline costs have a direct impact on the cost of living, some worries eliminating all subsidies would have a negative economic impact.