Kenya cooking gas consumption rises despite price hikes

Cooking gas consumption in Kenya increased by more than 10 percent during the first half of 2026, reaching 248.82 tonnes compared to 224.52 tonnes in the same period of 2025.

This growth occurred despite significant price hikes for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). Retail prices for a 13-kilogram cylinder rose to an average of Sh3,500 in May, up from Sh3,140 in January. The price surge was attributed to economic shocks stemming from geopolitical tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Analysts had previously anticipated that these rising costs would suppress demand, particularly among low-income households.