Nationwide Unrest in Kenya as Fuel Price Hike Sparks Cost-of-Living Crisis

Kenya is facing a fresh wave of unrest as fuel protests spread across major cities over surging petrol prices, rising diesel costs, and an escalating cost-of-living crisis that has triggered widespread public anger.

The demonstrations began on Tuesday, with hundreds of mostly young protesters taking to the streets in different parts of the country, disrupting traffic and temporarily paralysing business activities in some urban centres.

In Nairobi, protesters gathered around the Kenya National Archives in the central business district, where the early stages of the protest were largely peaceful. Demonstrators sang the national anthem, played games, and chanted slogans before security forces intervened. Police were later deployed to disperse the crowd, reportedly using water cannons. At least 11 protesters were arrested in the CBD and subsequently charged in court the following day.

While the latest protests have not recorded fatalities—unlike the deadly unrest during the 2024 Finance Bill demonstrations—tension remains high across several regions, with fears of further escalation. In towns such as Embu and surrounding areas, traders shut down businesses early, anticipating possible violence and disruptions linked to the ongoing protests.

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The unrest was triggered by a major fuel price adjustment announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which significantly increased pump prices across the country. Under the revised pricing structure, petrol prices rose by 16.1%, while diesel increased by 24.2%, further worsening transportation costs and pushing up the prices of goods and services.

EPRA attributed the hike to rising global crude oil prices and increased import costs, which officials say have surged by nearly 68.7% due to global market instability and supply chain disruptions. Kenya’s reliance on imported fuel—especially from Gulf countries—has made the economy vulnerable to international shocks, including disruptions linked to strategic global routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping corridor.

The protests gained momentum following online campaigns led by activists and opposition voices using the hashtag #RejectFuelPrices, which rapidly spread across social media and helped mobilise demonstrators nationwide. Security agencies have since increased surveillance in major cities amid concerns that the protests could expand further in the coming days.

The Kenyan government has condemned the demonstrations, describing them as unlawful and accusing organisers of failing to comply with the mandatory 14-day notice requirement for public protests. Officials also alleged that some of the mobilisation efforts amounted to unlawful assembly, though protest organisers insist the movement is a legitimate response to economic hardship.

President William Ruto defended the government’s position, arguing that global fuel price increases cannot be reversed through street protests. “There are others saying that because fuel prices have increased globally, they will hold protests in the country. If they protest, will the cost of fuel decrease?” he said.

In an attempt to ease public pressure, the government introduced an eight percent VAT reduction on fuel, which lowered petrol prices to about Sh197.60 per litre. However, many citizens say the reduction is insufficient, especially after prices recently peaked at Sh206.97 per litre.

Despite the intervention, frustration remains high as households continue to face rising transport fares, food inflation, and stagnant incomes. Analysts say the protests reflect deeper economic distress and growing dissatisfaction with rising living costs, warning that without sustained reforms, public unrest could persist as citizens demand more effective relief measures. Security agencies remain on alert as further demonstrations are expected across multiple cities.

Nationwide Unrest in Kenya as Fuel Price Hike Sparks Cost-of-Living Crisis

‘If Nigeria Fails, We All Feel It’ – Mahama Raises Alarm Over Insecurity

President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, revealing that he prays every day for the country to overcome its growing insecurity.

Speaking at an award ceremony in Ghana, Mahama stressed that the stability of Nigeria is critical not just to its citizens but to the entire African continent. He warned that the persistent violence fueled by terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts could have far-reaching regional consequences.

Emphasising Nigeria’s strategic importance in West Africa, Mahama noted that Ghana’s security and economic well-being are closely tied to Nigeria’s success. According to him, any major breakdown in Nigeria’s security structure could trigger mass migration, placing enormous pressure on neighbouring countries.

“Nigeria is of keen security interest to us. If Nigeria does well, Ghana does well,” Mahama said.

Highlighting Nigeria’s large population, he added that even a fraction of displaced persons crossing into Ghana could overwhelm the country.

“When you have cousins—250 million of them—you want them to do well so that one million of them don’t come drifting towards a small country like Ghana,” he stated.

Mahama further revealed the depth of his concern, saying his prayers for Nigeria have become a daily routine.

“Every day I wake up, I pray for Nigeria. I say, ‘God, let Nigeria get their act together,’” he said.

He also referenced historical ties between both nations, noting that migration between Ghana and Nigeria has existed for decades, with many people tracing roots across borders, particularly among Yoruba communities.

The Ghanaian president’s remarks come at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with escalating insecurity, especially in the northeastern region where insurgent attacks have persisted.

In response to recent attacks on military personnel, Vice President Kashim Shettima visited troops in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, to commiserate with the armed forces.

The visit followed the killing of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and several soldiers in a recent confrontation with insurgents. Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima praised the military for its sacrifices in defending the nation.

“These men wore the uniform for all of us. They stood to protect our communities, our families, and the future of our children,” he said.

“Their courage reminds us that peace and security often come at a very heavy cost.”

The growing insecurity in Nigeria continues to draw regional attention, with leaders like Mahama calling for stronger cooperation to tackle the crisis. Analysts say Nigeria’s stability remains central to the future of West Africa, making urgent and sustained action essential.

‘If Nigeria Fails, We All Feel It’ – Mahama Raises Alarm Over Insecurity

Pope Leo XIV Launches 11-Day Africa Tour Across Four Nations

Pope Leo XIV has begun his first major international mission since becoming pontiff, launching an 11-day Africa tour that will take him across Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea in what the Vatican describes as a landmark apostolic journey focused on peace, interfaith dialogue, and global justice.

The trip covers more than 18,000 kilometres (11,000 miles) and is expected to include 11 speeches, seven masses, and visits to about a dozen locations before the pontiff returns on April 23.

The Vatican, headquartered in Vatican City, says the visit underscores Africa’s growing importance to the global Catholic Church, which continues to expand rapidly across the continent.

Focus on peace, interfaith dialogue and social justice

During the tour, Pope Leo XIV is expected to address key issues including Christian–Muslim relations, peacebuilding, human rights, inequality, and poverty, particularly in regions affected by conflict and economic instability.

Church officials say the visit also reflects the Vatican’s broader diplomatic strategy to strengthen ties with African nations at a time of heightened global geopolitical tension.

Algeria visit: First papal trip to a Muslim-majority state

The first stop is Algeria (April 13–15), where Pope Leo XIV will become the first pontiff to officially visit the North African nation, where Islam is the state religion.

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He is expected to meet President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, visit the Great Mosque of Algiers, and undertake private prayers at memorial sites linked to victims of Algeria’s civil war.

Religious leaders say the visit will strongly emphasise interfaith understanding between Christianity and Islam and promote reconciliation.

Cameroon: Peace message in conflict-affected regions

From April 15–18, the pontiff will visit Cameroon, where his focus is expected to centre on peace and national unity, especially in the English-speaking regions affected by long-standing separatist conflict.

A major mass is scheduled in Bamenda, the epicentre of the crisis, with heightened security arrangements already in place.

He is also expected to meet President Paul Biya and visit Catholic schools, hospitals, and humanitarian centres that serve millions across the country.

Angola: Poverty, inequality and economic justice

In Angola (April 18–21), Pope Leo XIV is expected to address poverty, corruption, and unequal distribution of wealth, despite the country’s significant oil and mineral resources.

The pope will visit Luanda and Muxima, a major Catholic pilgrimage site located along a historic slave-trading route, where he is expected to highlight themes of healing, justice, and reconciliation.

Public debate has also emerged over the cost of the visit, even as large Catholic communities prepare to welcome him.

Equatorial Guinea: Governance and human rights focus

The final stop of the tour (April 21–23) will be Equatorial Guinea, where long-time leader Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has ruled since 1979.

With a predominantly Catholic population, the visit carries strong religious significance but also diplomatic sensitivity due to concerns around human rights and governance issues.

Observers say the pontiff is expected to carefully balance pastoral engagement with subtle advocacy for social justice and reform.

Earlier international trips

Since assuming the papacy in May, Pope Leo XIV has visited Turkey, Lebanon, and Monaco, but Vatican officials say this Africa tour represents his most ambitious overseas mission so far.

Further international engagements are expected later in the year as part of expanded Vatican outreach efforts.

Pope Leo XIV Launches 11-Day Africa Tour Across Four Nations