Government Defends Fuel Pricing, Warns Against Protests as NYOTA Youth Program Expands Nationwide

By Irene Mwende 

The Government has moved to clarify the factors influencing rising fuel prices, defend its economic strategies, and caution against civil unrest, while also highlighting progress in youth empowerment under the NYOTA Project.

In a detailed press statement, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura outlined how fuel prices in Kenya are determined, emphasizing that the current trends are largely driven by global economic pressures and geopolitical developments.

Dr. Mwaura explained that Kenya’s position as a middle-income economy, coupled with its extensive road infrastructure, significantly shapes its fuel pricing structure. He noted that levies embedded in fuel costs help maintain thousands of kilometres of roads across the country, supporting transport and economic activity.

The Government also defended its fuel procurement strategy, particularly the government-to-government (G2G) arrangement with suppliers from the Middle East. According to the statement, the credit-based model has eased pressure on foreign exchange reserves, stabilized the Kenyan shilling, and helped cushion consumers from more severe price shocks.

Placing Kenya’s situation in a global context, the spokesperson pointed to rising fuel costs in countries such as the United Kingdom and South Africa, attributing the trend to ongoing geopolitical tensions, including conflicts in the Middle East. He stressed that Kenya’s price adjustments are consistent with global patterns and should not be politicized.

At the same time, the Government issued a strong warning against protests and civil disruption, citing economic losses of up to Ksh 6 billion during previous demonstrations, according to the Kenya Revenue Authority. It cautioned that further unrest could harm the economy and negatively impact livelihoods, particularly for young people.

While affirming citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, the Government condemned the infiltration of demonstrations by criminal elements and warned against political violence. It pledged firm action against individuals or groups involved in incitement, destruction of property, or the use of gangs to disrupt public order.

On the development front, the Government announced significant progress in the NYOTA Project, a nationwide youth empowerment initiative. The second phase of mandatory business training has officially commenced across all 290 constituencies, with over 6,000 trainers deployed to support beneficiaries.

The program has already recorded strong outcomes, with 97 percent of participants engaging in mentorship and 99 percent successfully launching businesses after receiving initial funding. Officials said the ongoing training aims to strengthen entrepreneurial skills and prepare participants for further financial support.

Reaffirming its commitment to economic stability, youth empowerment, and national unity, the Government called on leaders and citizens alike to prioritize constructive engagement and peaceful coexistence in addressing the country’s challenges.

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