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Kenya, April 20,2026 - As fuel prices rise, commuters across Kenya are digging deeper into their pockets, but a new analysis suggests the extra burden may not be entirely justified.
The National Taxpayers Association (NTA) now claims that matatu fare increases have gone beyond covering fuel costs, accusing operators of taking advantage of the situation to boost their earnings.
This follows a recent fuel price hike announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which saw many matatu operators raise fares by up to 25 per cent, citing higher operating costs.
But according to NTA Chief Executive Patrick Nyangweso, the numbers tell a different story.
Using a typical Nairobi–Nakuru route, Nyangweso broke down the costs of running a 14-seater matatu. He explained that while the increase in diesel prices adds roughly Sh587 per trip, operators are collecting far more from passengers.
“With fares at about Sh300 per passenger, that’s roughly Sh4,200 per trip. After accounting for the extra fuel cost, they are still left with over Sh3,600,” he said.
“This is uncalled for… we should not continue to rob Kenyans in broad daylight.”
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The lobby group also raised concerns over similar fare hikes by electric buses, questioning why operators not directly affected by fuel prices are also increasing charges.
Beyond transport, the association warned that rising fuel costs are already pushing up the cost of living, affecting everything from food prices to supply chains.
Nyangweso noted that while government measures, such as reducing VAT on fuel, may offer temporary relief, they also come with economic trade-offs, including reduced public revenue and increased pressure on national debt.
He urged transport operators to act responsibly and adjust fares within reasonable limits, warning that unchecked increases could further strain households already grappling with economic pressures.