In a welcome relief to households and businesses, the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) has reported a significant decline in the prices of key non-food commodities over the past year. The data, covering the period from February 2024 to February 2025, shows a noticeable drop in the cost of electricity, fuel, and other essential goods, offering hope amid ongoing economic pressures.
According to the KNBS report, the most substantial decrease was recorded in the price of kerosene, which dropped by 21.5%. This reduction is expected to benefit low-income households that rely on kerosene for cooking and lighting, easing the burden of energy costs.
Electricity prices also saw a notable decline. The cost of 200 kilowatts of electricity fell by 16.6%, while the price for 50 kilowatts dropped by 10.7%. These reductions are set to lower household expenses and support businesses reliant on electric power.
Fuel prices have also eased, with diesel prices falling by 14.5% per liter and petrol prices decreasing by 14.4% per liter. The decline in fuel costs is expected to have a ripple effect across the economy, reducing transportation expenses and lowering the cost of goods and services.
The report also highlighted a reduction in the cost of local flights, which dropped by 20.8%, offering more affordable travel options within the country.
This overall decline in non-food commodity prices comes at a crucial time when the cost of living has been a pressing concern for many Kenyans. The government and economic experts are hopeful that these price reductions will help stabilize inflation and improve the purchasing power of consumers.
As Kenya continues to navigate global economic challenges, the drop in essential non-food commodity prices marks a positive step toward easing financial strain and promoting economic resilience. The KNBS encourages citizens to stay informed on market trends and make the most of the favorable pricing environment.
For more information, visit the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics website at www.knbs.or.ke.
