Rwandans will, from this Saturday, pay more for fuel compared to Kenyans following an adjustment of prices by the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA).
However, unlike Kenyans, the citizens will be cushioned against a hike in public transport fares as the state works out modalities to assist public transport operators in managing the hike.
A communiqué released last night by the authority said the hike takes effect on June 6 at 6:00 am, when gasoline (petrol) will retail at a price not exceeding 2,938 Rwandan Francs, equivalent to Sh259.78, while diesel will retail at a price not exceeding 2,927 Rwandan Francs, equivalent to Sh258.81.
For the last three weeks, Kenyans have been paying Sh214.25, Sh232.86, and Sh191.38 for super petrol, diesel, and kerosene in Nairobi, respectively.
The prices followed the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA)’s May 18 review of the fuel prices that saw diesel prices in Nairobi drop by Sh10.06 per litre, as kerosene rose sharply by Sh38.60 per litre. Super petrol remained unchanged. Another review is due in a week.
Rwanda imports all its fuel through regional transport corridors, leaving domestic pump prices highly exposed to fluctuations in global oil markets, freight charges and supply chain disruptions.
The June revision means petrol prices have climbed by nearly 48 per cent since early April, while diesel prices have risen by more than 32 per cent over the same period.
RURA attributed the adjustments to developments in international petroleum markets and supply conditions, while taking into account government measures to safeguard fuel supply and limit the impact on the economy and consumers.
“Government interventions have helped moderate the increase in pump prices, keeping them below the level that would result from market conditions alone. This support is intended to cushion transport and freight services and reduce broader economic impacts,” the statement signed by RURA Director General Evariste Rugigana adds.
Among the interventions are a stoppage of likely public transport fare hikes.
“Public transport fares will remain unchanged. Government support measures will continue to assist public transport operators in managing higher fuel costs and ensure affordable transport services for commuters,” he said.
The authority assured that it will take appropriate measures to ensure fair pricing, market stability, and a reliable fuel supply nationwide amid ongoing developments in global and regional petroleum markets.
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