Long-distance bus companies have began fare increases following the latest fuel price review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
The fare adjustments come just two days after EPRA raised the price of super petrol by Ksh16.65 per litre and diesel by Ksh46.29 per litre, while kerosene prices remained unchanged.
The sharp increase has significantly affected the transport sector, as most long-distance bus companies rely heavily on diesel for operations.
Under the new rates, passengers travelling between Nairobi and Upcountry destinations through Narok will now pay Ksh1,700 for both Nairobi-Upcountry and Upcountry-Nairobi trips.
Long distance buses raise fare after fuel price hike
Passengers using the Kisii to Kisumu route will also pay Ksh700, while those travelling between Kisii and Nakuru will part with Ksh1,000.
According to the bus companies, the fare adjustments are necessary to cushion them against rising operational expenses due to rising fuel prices.
Transporters further cited increased maintenance costs, spare parts prices, and inflationary pressures as additional burdens affecting the industry.
Addressing the press yesterday, representatives from the transport sector stated that the rising cost of fuel has significantly affected their daily earnings and operational expenses, forcing them to hike fare prices.
The operators also announced a strike of all PSVs starting Monday, May 18, lamenting that the new hiked fuel prices will make it difficult for the transport industry to sustain normal operations.
