President William Ruto defended Kenya’s government-to-government (G-to-G) fuel importation model, asserting it offers a more efficient system than Uganda’s, which he claimed allows middlemen to inflate prices. Speaking during a ceremony in Kenya, Ruto emphasized that the G-to-G model has secured petroleum products at a more competitive cost, ensuring direct access to fuel without intermediaries. His remarks came as Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni criticized the system, accusing it of allowing corrupt practices.
Museveni recently named Kenyan Senator Jirongo for exposing irregularities in Uganda’s oil deal, praising Ruto for securing a new arrangement that includes a 20.15% pipeline stake in Uganda. This stake, Ruto argued, strengthens regional cooperation while reducing reliance on brokers. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the two East African nations over fuel pricing and transparency.
The G-to-G model has been a point of contention, with Museveni arguing that Kenya’s approach has not fully addressed the issue of middlemen. Ruto, however, maintains that the system has improved fuel availability and cost efficiency. The debate underscores broader challenges in regional economic integration and the need for transparent practices in energy trade.
The discussion comes amid efforts by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to reduce airfares and improve regional connectivity, signaling a growing focus on economic collaboration in East Africa.
