Mass protests and a nationwide transport strike began in Kenya on 18 May 2026, following a sharp increase in fuel prices.

The action was triggered after prices were raised on 14 May 2026, with diesel rising by approximately 23.5% and petrol also increasing. 

Protests were reported across Nairobi, with demonstrators blocking major roads, burning tyres and gathering in both the central business district and surrounding areas.

The strike followed a joint announcement by transport stakeholders on 17 May 2026, confirming a nationwide stoppage of vehicle movement from midnight the following day.

The action involves multiple subsectors, including passenger transport, cargo, logistics operations and informal transport providers.

Logistics operations face challenges, including reduced trucking capacity and potential delays in cargo movement linked to the port of Mombasa.

There is also a risk of wider supply chain disruption across regional corridors.