Kenya has sharply raised the cost of petroleum, with diesel prices rising by a record margin despite a fuel tax cut, as the conflict in Iran pushes up global oil prices.
In its latest review, the energy regulator raised the cost of diesel by 40 Kenya shillings to 206 ($1.6; £1.2) a litre, while petrol rose by 28 shillings to a similar level. It said this reflected higher global oil and shipping costs, even as the government cut value added tax to 13% from 16%.
The new prices will last until 14 May when the next review is due.
Fuel shortages have been reported in parts of the country, although the government insists stocks are sufficient and accuses some fuel companies of hoarding supplies.
The reports of shortages have been overshadowed by controversy over an allegedly substandard consignment imported last month outside government-to-government arrangements and at a significantly higher cost.
