The Matatu Owners Association instructed all matatu operators to raise passenger fares by 10 percent following the latest fuel price adjustments announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).

Association president Albert Karakacha said the decision was taken after wide consultations with members, citing rising operational costs and the need to maintain profitability.

EPRA will raise the retail price of Super Petrol by Sh12.93 per litre, diesel by Sh9.90 and kerosene by Sh28.49, with the new rates applying from 15 October to 14 November.

In Nairobi, the maximum retail price for Super Petrol will reach Sh226.96 per litre, diesel Sh227.76 and kerosene Sh219.85 under the new schedule.

EPRA Director‑General Edward Mwirigi Kinyua attributed the price hikes to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has disrupted petroleum supply chains and increased import costs.

Karakacha expressed disappointment over the diesel increase, recalling a promise by President William Ruto in a recent Mombasa meeting that diesel prices would remain stable for matatu operators.

He urged the President to honour that commitment, warning that continued cost pressures could damage the transport sector and the broader economy.

The fare increase follows a May 22 directive by President Ruto to review the Insurance Act and transport regulations after operators raised concerns about delayed insurance payouts.

Ruto also tasked the Ministry of Transport to collaborate with the Insurance Regulatory Authority and other stakeholders on reforms aimed at safeguarding both operators and passengers.

Karakacha noted that other pledged measures—such as bank engagement to prevent vehicle auctions and the introduction of 100,000 electric vehicles with zero‑rated taxes—have yet to materialise.

He also apologised to parents, acknowledging that the fare rise coincides with school closures when many families have already budgeted for transport expenses.