Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has assured Kenyans that the country’s fuel supply remains highly secure, downplaying fears of a shortage despite the ongoing geopolitical crisis in the Middle East.

Speaking after conducting unannounced spot checks at various petrol stations in Machakos and neighboring areas, CS Wandayi confirmed that pumps remain fully stocked and operations are running seamlessly.

The CS noted that the local distribution chain is robust enough to shield motorists from any immediate disruptions at the pump.

“As you can see, the stocks of all petroleum products are available. We’ve got adequate stocks of all the products and motorists are able to get the services they require from these stations without any form of hindrance. That means therefore that the economy is now running normally and normalcy has essentially returned,” said the energy boss.

Addressing how Kenya has managed to stay insulated from the supply shocks hitting neighboring countries, Wandayi credited the state’s current import strategy.

He attributed the stable supply directly to the Government-to-Government (G-to-G) fuel importation framework, noting that the model has successfully cushioned the country against the severe shortages currently crippling other markets in the region and globally.

While supply is guaranteed, the CS acknowledged the heavy financial burden still facing local consumers at the pump, describing the current price spikes as a passing wave.

Mr Wandayi, however, issued a stern warning to political actors, urging citizens to maintain peace and protect the economy from external manipulation.

Referring to unrest witnessed the previous week, the CS urged the public to reject attempts to weaponize essential commodities for partisan gain.

He emphasized that safeguarding the country’s economic stability requires collective responsibility, law, and order.