Shell announces fuel shortage at select petrol stations
By Cynthia Lodite, March 26, 2026Vivo Energy has announced a fuel shortage across several Shell stations across the country, as motorists grapple with fuel shortage.
In a statement on Thursday, March 26, 2026, the company confirmed that the shortage was linked to a sharp increase in demand for fuel, which has resulted in the temporary shortage of the commodity.
“Vivo Energy Kenya, the company that distributes and markets Shell products and services in the country, would like to update our customers and partners on the current fuel supply situation across our Shell service station network,” Vivo Energy Kenya announced.
The company, which operates one of the largest fuel retail networks in Kenya, has further assured motorists that the teams are closely monitoring the situation while working continuously to replenish affected sites as quickly as possible.
“We have recently experienced increased demand for our products, which has resulted in temporary stock-outs at some service stations. Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and working continuously to replenish affected sites as quickly as possible,” the company explained.
At the same time, Shell has noted that despite the stock‑outs, it remains fully committed to maintaining supply across its network and ensuring that essential services continue without prolonged interruption.
“We appreciate your continued patronage and apologize for the inconveniences caused by this and remain fully committed to serving our customers reliably and ensuring that our service stations and the essential services that depend on us stay supplied,” Vivo Energy stated.
The temporary shortages at Shell stations come amid rising global fuel prices that have affected both local and international markets. Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has warned oil marketing companies against hoarding fuel or withholding stocks 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 on March 25. He added that any company attempting to take advantage of the situation could face serious sanctions.
Meanwhile, global fuel markets are under pressure due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly 20 % of the world’s crude and LNG.
Supply disruptions could remove 13–14 million barrels per day from global markets. Fuel prices, including jet fuel, have surged, prompting airlines to raise surcharges. Europe faces potential shortages within weeks, while households and businesses worldwide experience rising energy costs.