Vivo Energy Kenya has attributed the temporary shortage of fuel at some of its Shell service stations to an unexpected increase in customer demand.
In a statement, the company said that it is actively monitoring fuel levels and prioritising the quick replenishment of stocks to minimise inconvenience to motorists and businesses.
“We have recently experienced increased demand for our products, resulting in temporary stock shortages at some service stations,” the company said .
The company apologised for the inconvenience caused and confirmed its commitment to supplying service stations and other essential services.
“We appreciate your continued patronage and apologise for the inconveniences caused by this and remain fully committed to serving our customers reliably,” the company said.
Temporary shortages at Shell stations come amid rising global fuel prices, impacting both local and international markets.
On Wednesday, the Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary, Opiyo Wandayi, warned oil marketing companies against hoarding or withholding fuel in anticipation of price changes.
“Notwithstanding the stable supply position… we note with concern reports of product hoarding and speculative withholding of stocks,” Wandayi said. He added that any company attempting to take advantage of the situation could face serious sanctions.
While addressing public fears about a potential fuel crisis, the Wandayi immediately offered a clear assurance while asserting that there is no shortage of petroleum.
The CS noted that reserves are currently at the required national level, with the Kenya Pipeline Company holding significant stocks: 102 million litres of petrol, 146 million litres of diesel and 1.7 million litres of dual-purpose kerosene.
He also noted that vessels were confirmed to deliver a combined 30 million litres this month, with another 288 million litres scheduled, while crediting the government’s partners Saudi Aramco, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc), and the Emirates National Oil Company (Noc) who “remain fully engaged”.
Mr Wandayi further criticised some oil marketing companies for hoarding the product, stating that this was contrary to the public interest and a direct breach of their licensing obligations.
The government has emphasised that the country’s systems for importing, storing and distributing fuel are still fully operational. Wandayi urged motorists to remain calm and avoid panic buying, and warned against using jerry cans at petrol stations.
The discrepancy between official assurances and market realities has raised concerns among industry executives, who are warning that Kenya could be heading towards a supply shortage.
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