Kenyan musician and businesswoman Esther Akothee has shared her frustration over rising fuel costs in Kenya. The entrepreneur revealed that the cost of filling her car’s tank has jumped from Ksh 11,000 to Ksh 19,000 in recent months.
Akothee posted proof of her latest fuelling expense alongside her remaining mobile money balance on social media. The post highlights the growing burden of transport costs on motorists across the country.
From Ksh 11k to Ksh 19k: A Sharp Increase
Akothee detailed how her vehicle's fuel bill steadily increased over a short period.She explained that the last time she filled the tank herself was before travelling abroad in April.
"My car’s full tank used to cost 11K, then it went to 13K, then 15K. That was the last time I fuelled it myself before leaving the country in April,” she posted.
Upon returning, the cost to fill the same tank reached Ksh 19,000.
An M-Pesa transaction confirmation showed that she paid Ksh 19,103.00 at Rongo Shell Service Station on 9 October 2026 at 10:37 AM.
M-Pesa Balance and Demands for Financial Support
After paying for the fuel, Akothee displayed her M-Pesa balance to address individuals who frequently request financial support from her. The receipt showed a remaining balance of Ksh 2,689.
"And for those planning to ask me for money, my balance is over there. After paying for fuel enough for 3 or 4 days Leave me alone.”
She noted that high mileage means she fills her tank multiple times in a single week.
"That’s my full tank twice a week, depending on the journey."
Comparing Kenyan Costs with European Transport
Akothee also compared her daily living expenses in Kenya with her routine in Europe. She pointed out that relying on public transportation abroad allows her to avoid the heavy costs associated with owning and running a personal car.
"You see the kind of problems I don’t have in Europe? I just jump from one bus to the next train to another taxi. Aaahhhh economy!"
She added that converting Kenyan Shillings into foreign currencies further illustrates the high cost of living.
"I spend too much money in Kenya compared to what I spend in Europe, wait until it’s time to convert KSH into Pounds ,euros or USD ndio utajua ulaya siyo ya KSH,” she added.
Kenya's Fuel Price Surge
Akothee's experience reflects wider economic trends affecting Kenyan consumers. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced several fuel price adjustments in recent months.
Rising fuel prices continue to drive transport costs upwards across the country. Official statistics show transport remains a primary driver of Kenya's national inflation rate.
