Kenya is facing a major social and economic crisis following the launch of a nationwide strike by public transport operators protesting the sharp increase in fuel prices. The industrial action has severely disrupted movement across several cities, particularly in the capital, Nairobi, where many roads remained nearly deserted.

Thousands of commuters were stranded from the early hours of the day, while numerous businesses suspended operations. In some parts of Nairobi, shops remained closed, and several schools asked students to stay home due to transportation difficulties.

Footage broadcast by local television stations showed protesters setting up barricades on roads and burning tires to block traffic. In several regions of the country, clashes also erupted between security forces and demonstrators. Police used tear gas to disperse crowds, while incidents involving motorists were also reported.

The protests come just days after Kenyan authorities announced another increase in fuel prices. The new rates reached record levels, with some petroleum products rising by more than 20%.

Like many African countries, Kenya relies heavily on fuel imports from Gulf nations. However, geopolitical tensions linked to the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran have significantly disrupted global oil supplies since late February. Despite the recent announcement of a ceasefire, fuel prices have remained high due to the continued blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic shipping route through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil passes.

Ahead of the strike, authorities strengthened security measures and warned against any acts likely to disturb public order. Meanwhile, the organization representing transport operators urged all road users — including private motorists, public minibuses locally known as “matatus,” and truck drivers — to suspend operations in support of the nationwide protest.

In a statement, the Transport Sector Alliance (TSA) said the action went beyond the transport sector and concerned all Kenyan citizens struggling with the rising cost of living.

The organization accused the government of failing to take sufficient measures to protect citizens from the continuous increase in fuel prices. It is demanding the cancellation of the latest fuel hikes and a reduction of approximately 35% in pump prices.

Last Thursday, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority set diesel prices at around 242 Kenyan shillings per litre, while petrol prices also reached historic highs.

Speaking to local broadcaster NTV, Kenya’s Finance Minister, John Mbadi, acknowledged that the fuel price increase was unfortunate and was placing heavy pressure on the national economy. However, he described the strike as unjustified, insisting that the government must make “rational rather than emotional” decisions in response to a global energy crisis.

The rising cost of fuel has already triggered increases in public transport fares, as well as higher prices for food and essential goods. Although the government recently reduced fuel VAT from 16% to 8% until July, several organizations argue that these measures remain insufficient to ease the burden on households and businesses.