Following recent concerns over the quality of petroleum fuels in Kenya, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the Energy & Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) have issued a joint statement affirming the integrity of fuel available in the market. The two regulatory bodies emphasized their commitment to transparency and maintaining high standards in petroleum fuel distribution.
Fuel Testing and Certification
According to KEBS and EPRA, all petroleum fuels imported into Kenya undergo rigorous testing and certification before being released into the market. These quality assurance measures are designed to ensure that fuels meet the required Research Octane Number (RON) ratings as stipulated by Kenyan standards. In response to viral social media reports questioning the quality of premium fuels, the regulatory agencies conducted extensive confirmatory tests on fuel samples from various retail stations, including those cited in the reports.
The findings, according to KEBS and EPRA, confirm that all sampled fuel stations are in full compliance with the required RON ratings. They reiterated that fuels marketed as premium products with higher RON values have consistently met these standards.
No Cause for Alarm
KEBS and EPRA reassured motorists that there is no reason for concern regarding the quality of fuel available in the country. They urged consumers to maintain confidence in the fuel being sold at licensed petrol stations, as their tests have found no discrepancies in compliance.
The statement further explained that Super Petrol is categorised based on its RON rating, which determines its suitability for different engine types. These ratings, KEBS and EPRA emphasized, can only be accurately assessed in controlled laboratory environments where testing variables are strictly monitored.
Warning Against Unverified Testing Gadgets
Addressing concerns raised through social media, KEBS and EPRA cautioned the public against relying on non-standard testing devices that claim to measure RON ratings. While such gadgets may offer qualitative indications, the regulators asserted that only laboratory tests conducted using proper procedures—such as standard sampling techniques, equipment calibration, and controlled testing—can guarantee accurate results.
Commitment to Transparency
Both KEBS and EPRA reiterated their dedication to upholding the highest quality standards in fuel distribution across Kenya. They assured the public that they remain vigilant in monitoring and verifying fuel quality to safeguard consumer interests.
“We appreciate the continued trust and support of the public as we work to ensure the highest quality standards in fuel distribution,” the statement concluded.
With this assurance from the country’s key regulatory bodies, motorists and fuel consumers can continue to purchase fuel from registered stations with confidence, knowing that stringent quality control measures are in place.
