Four people were killed and more than 30 others injured during protests in Kenya over rising fuel prices and a nationwide transport strike, according to the country’s interior minister. Police also arrested hundreds of people as demonstrations spread across different areas. The strike caused major disruption across the country, especially in the capital, Nairobi. Many roads were empty as public transport vehicles stopped operating.
Some businesses stayed closed, while schools asked students to remain at home because of safety concerns. Protesters blocked roads using burning tires and barricades. In some places, police fired tear gas to break up crowds. Authorities reported injuries to several police officers during the clashes, along with damage to some vehicles. The protests began after the government increased fuel prices last week. Petrol and diesel prices rose by more than 20%, reaching record highs in Kenya. The increase has made transport and daily living pricier for many people.
Kenya depends heavily on imported fuel from Gulf countries. Supplies were affected by the recent conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Although a ceasefire was later announced, fuel prices remained high because shipping through the Strait of Hormuz was still disrupted. Bus stops in Nairobi stranded thousands of commuters. Many people traveling into the city from other towns could not continue their journeys because roads were blocked.
Public transport fares also increased, making travel difficult for ordinary workers. One Nairobi resident told Reuters that transport costs had doubled or even tripled in some areas. He said life was becoming too expensive and urged President William Ruto to lower fuel prices. Transport workers and motorists also faced problems. A bus traveling from Tanzania was unable to reach Nairobi because of roadblocks, leaving passengers stranded. Traders who bring food and goods from Tanzania into Kenya said they could not continue their businesses during the strike.
The Transport Sector Alliance, which represents transport operators, called for the shutdown. The group asked all vehicle owners, including bus drivers and truckers, to stay off the roads. It said the government had failed to protect citizens from the rising cost of living. The alliance wants the recent fuel price increases reversed and is demanding lower prices.
The government recently reduced the fuel tax, but many Kenyans believe stronger action is needed. Treasury Minister John Mbadi admitted the fuel price rise was hurting the economy. However, he criticized the strike and said global fuel problems could not easily be solved through local action. Talks between the government and transport groups have not produced an agreement yet, raising fears that more protests and transport disruptions could continue in the coming days.
