Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi on Thursday dismissed reports that there was a jet fuel shortage at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Speaking during a visit to the Kenya Petroleum Refineries Limited in Mombasa later in the day, the CS attributed the flight delays to a hitch in the pumping system.
According to the CS, despite the disruption, the issue was quickly resolved in less than one and a half hours before normalcy resumed at the country’s main airport.
Wandayi claimed that under Government to Government oil deal reached between Kenya and four Gulf oil companies in 2023, Kenya was unlikely to experience any jet fuel shortage.
“There was just a small incident earlier in the morning and that had nothing to do with fuel shortage,” Wandayi said.
“We do not foresee any fuel shortage in the foreseeable future under the G-to-G arrangements, very elaborate mechanisms have been put in place to ensure that we have a steady supply of fuel for the country’s use.”
The CS further disclosed that the government was in the process of merging the Kenya Petroleum Refineries Limited with the Kenya Pipeline Corporation to enhance fuel supply in the country.
Wandayi's sentiments came hours after the Kenya Airport Authority (KAA)announced a fuel supply disruption at the JKIA which affected flight operations.
In a statement, the Authority revealed that the issue was swiftly rectified and normal airport operations resumed.
The fuel disruption resulted in confusion among passengers with travellers advised to consult their respective airlines for further direction on the matter.
"KAA wishes to inform the public that there was an A1 fuel supply disruption this morning that affected operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The issue has been rectified, and normal airport operations have now resumed," KAA informed passengers.
"We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused to our passengers and airline partners. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for any updates regarding their flights."
