The government has intensified efforts to shield Kenyans from soaring fuel prices triggered by the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has disrupted global oil supply chains and pushed up the cost of petroleum products worldwide.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said the government is implementing a raft of measures aimed at stabilizing fuel prices and easing the burden on consumers facing rising transport and living costs.
Speaking on Friday during an inspection tour of development projects in South Imenti Constituency, Meru County, Prof. Kindiki noted that the conflict in the Persian Gulf had significantly increased the cost of fuel importation, insurance, and shipping across the globe.
“The prices of fuel, insurance and shipping have risen sharply because of the war in Iran. This situation has affected many countries around the world, but we are committed to ensuring Kenyans do not suffer due to these global disruptions,” said the Deputy President.
He revealed that the government had already reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel from 16 percent to 8 percent in a move aimed at lowering pump prices. In addition, the State has released Sh5 billion to subsidize fuel costs as authorities continue exploring more interventions to cushion citizens from the escalating prices.
“We are implementing every possible measure to stabilize fuel prices. We do not want Kenyans to suffer because of increased fuel costs, high transport fares, and the rising cost of living,” he added.
Prof. Kindiki appealed to Kenyans to remain patient as the government works on long-term solutions to manage the effects of the global oil crisis.
“It is not the intention of the government to see wananchi struggling. We are asking Kenyans to be patient as these measures are rolled out,” he said.
During the tour, the Deputy President inspected the ongoing construction of the Nkubu-Rubiri-Kamurita Road, which is nearing completion, as well as the Rubiri Last Mile Electricity Connection Project aimed at expanding access to electricity in the region.
Later, while addressing residents at Rubiri Shopping Centre, Prof. Kindiki assured locals that all ongoing government projects in the county would be completed on schedule, while additional development initiatives would soon commence.
Meru County has emerged as one of the major beneficiaries of the national road infrastructure programme, with over Sh39 billion allocated for the completion of stalled roads and the construction of new ones across various constituencies.
The government has also earmarked Sh3.7 billion for the construction of 17 kilometres of link roads within Meru town as part of efforts to upgrade the municipality in its quest to attain city status. Road improvement works in Nkubu town are also underway.
In the energy sector, the government has released Sh1.3 billion under the Last Mile Electricity Connectivity Programme to connect at least 16,000 households to electricity across the county.
“We are fully committed to transforming the lives of the people of Meru through infrastructure, electricity, healthcare and housing projects. We will ensure all these projects are completed within the set timelines,” Prof. Kindiki stated.
Among other flagship projects underway in the county is the upgrading of Meru Referral Hospital to a Level 6 facility, a move expected to improve specialized healthcare services in the region.
The county is also witnessing rapid progress in affordable housing programmes, institutional and hostel projects, as well as the construction of more than 20 modern markets aimed at boosting trade and economic growth.
At the same time, the Deputy President challenged political rivals to prepare for a performance-based political contest ahead of the next General Election.
“When we return here next year seeking your support, we will present a record of what we have accomplished over the last five years. Our opponents must also be ready to account for what they achieved when they were in office,” he said.
The Deputy President was accompanied by Mutuma M’Ethingia, Kathuri Murungi, Shadrack Mwiti, Moses Kirima, several Members of County Assembly and local residents.
