KENYA: Rising Cooking Oil Prices Dim Christmas Cheer In Kenya

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya

The recent sharp rise in cooking oil prices, as explained by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), is hitting Kenyan households hard, just as the Christmas season approaches.

With edible oils being increasingly diverted into biofuel production to meet global demand for greener energy, local consumers are facing tightened supplies and higher costs.

This development comes at a critical time when families typically prepare for festive celebrations marked by hearty meals.

Cooking oil, a staple in Kenyan kitchens, is central to many Christmas traditions, from frying mandazi to preparing festive stews and meats.

The steady price increases reported by retailers are forcing many to rethink their holiday plans, raising concerns about affordability during this special season.

The CBK has urged stakeholders to explore local production and alternative solutions to cushion consumers, but with the holiday season already here, immediate relief seems unlikely.

For now, Kenyans are left to grapple with these rising costs, finding creative ways to preserve the joy of Christmas despite economic pressures.

As biofuel production expands globally, industry players warn that these price hikes may persist, potentially impacting more holiday seasons to come.