By Ongaga Ongaga
The road transport sector is bracing for a Kenyawide strike beginning Monday, 18th May 2026, as operators protest against what they term “sharp and unjustified” fuel price increases.
The prices were imposed by the government through the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) recebtly.
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In a joint statement issued under the Transport Alliance, representatives from key transport associations announced the planned industrial action following a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held in Nairobi on Saturday.
The coalition includes the Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK), Matatu Owners and Operators, Boda Boda Associations, Digital Cab Operators, Tourist Vehicle Operators, Cargo and Freight Transporters, Commuter Representatives, Private Motorists, Borehole Drilling Machine Operators, and Generator Owners — all sectors heavily dependent on fuel.
“The fuel price increase announced on 14th May has worsened the already unbearable cost of living,” the statement read.
“It has directly contributed to skyrocketing commodity prices affecting every Kenyan household.”
The alliance is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the latest fuel price review, the disbandment of EPRA, and the liberalisation of fuel pricing to allow fair market competition.
They also called for the harmonisation of fuel prices to curb illegal mixing of petroleum products with kerosene.
“This action is a united stand for economic justice, fairness, and the protection of livelihoods,” the statement said.
“We urge all Kenyans suffering under the burden of high fuel costs to join peaceful protests starting Monday.”
The planned strike is expected to disrupt transport services across the country, with matatus, boda bodas, and cargo operators among those set to down their tools.
Issued by MAK, the notice signals growing discontent within the transport sector over rising fuel costs and their ripple effects on the economy.
