Road trips in Kenya set to soar in cost, impacting Gen Z travelers
Kenyas should brace themselves for a challenging period ahead, as the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced significant increases in fuel prices in its latest review.
EPRA announced new maximum retail petroleum prices from September 15 to October 14, 2023, road trips across Kenya are about to become considerably more expensive, potentially leaving Gen Z travelers out in the cold.
In accordance with Section 101(y) of the Petroleum Act 2019 and Legal Notice No.192 of 2022, EPRA has recalculated the maximum retail prices of petroleum products, showing significant increases that are likely to take a toll on road trips, particularly for the younger generation.
The changes in maximum retail prices that include taxes and other levies are as follows:
1. Super Petrol will increase by KShs.16.96 per litre.
2. Diesel will surge by KShs.21.32 per litre.
3. Kerosene, often favoured by budget-conscious travellers, will see a steep rise in KShs.33.13 per litre.
This latest adjustment propels fuel prices to a record high, breaching the Sh200 mark and taking into account the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) in accordance with the provisions of the Finance Act 2023.
Notably, no stabilization measures were applied in this review, further exacerbating the cost burden for consumers.
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These price hikes are expected to profoundly impact road trips across Kenya. Gen Z, known for their love of adventure and exploration, may now find their travel plans hitting a major roadblock.
Fuel cost is a significant component of any road trip budget, and these increases mean that hitting the open road will demand more from the wallets of young travellers.
With Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene prices all on the rise, even the most frugal of road trippers may feel the pinch.
These changes stem from fluctuations in the international market prices for petroleum products and the USD-KShs exchange rate.
As the world grapples with uncertainties in the energy sector, the younger generation may bear the brunt of these rising costs.
What was once an affordable and liberating way to explore Kenya’s diverse landscapes and cultures could now become a luxury for Gen Z travellers.
The newfound cost challenges may force Gen Z travellers to reconsider their travel plans, potentially impacting the tourism sector and the broader economy.
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