Kenya: Fuel Prices, Taxes On Essential Commodities Dominate Public Concerns Ahead of Budget Reading

Kenyans in Nairobi are urging the government to lower high fuel prices and reduce taxes on essential goods ahead of the Finance Bill 2026 presentation. The Treasury expects to raise about Sh54 billion through administrative reforms, including a new 25% tax on imported mobile phones and tighter oversight of cryptocurrency transactions. Citizens argue the proposals fail to address immediate economic pressures as the cost of living remains high.