Kenya’s Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has confirmed that the government stopped the delivery of a second fuel consignment after uncovering new details linked to a shipment already under investigation. In a statement issued on Sunday, April 5, 2026, Wandayi said the decision was made to protect public interest once “full information” about the questionable cargo emerged.
Wandayi acknowledged recent turbulence in the petroleum sector, including the resignation of several senior officials from both the ministry and its affiliated agencies. However, he moved to calm public anxiety, insisting the situation remains fully under control. He reiterated that the country holds sufficient petroleum stocks to meet current demand and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring an uninterrupted supply of quality fuel for Kenya and the wider region.
The Cabinet Secretary also defended the government-to-government (G-to-G) fuel procurement framework, describing it as “stable and resilient.” He disclosed that the ministry has already launched a comprehensive internal review of petroleum product management systems and processes. The goal, he said, is to reinforce transparency, safeguard fuel quality, and protect the integrity of the supply chain.
In a pointed warning, Wandayi said the government will not tolerate cartels, profiteers, or extortionists attempting to exploit uncertainty arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict. To illustrate his concerns, he cited invoice comparisons for March cargoes. According to Wandayi, invoices from One Petroleum for petrol (PMS) ex MT Paloma showed a landed in-tank Mombasa price of Ksh198,855 per metric ton, while those from Gulf Energy for the G-to-G petrol ex MT FOS Mercury stood at Ksh140,111 per metric ton — a stark difference now under scrutiny.
While appealing for patience as investigations continue, Wandayi pushed back against what he described as a campaign of disinformation by some political leaders. He urged Kenyans to allow the probe to run its course, assuring them that the government remains vigilant in protecting public resources and maintaining fuel security.
Tags
News