Kenya’s inflation, as measured by the Kenya Consumer Price Index (KECPI), saw a slight uptick in September, fueled by a general increase in prices across all sectors, according to a statement from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics released on Friday.
In September, year-on-year inflation stood at 6.8%, a marginal rise from the 6.7% recorded the previous month. On a monthly basis, inflation surged to 1%, a notable shift from the -0.1% reported in the preceding month.
Kenya’s government maintains a preferred inflation band of 2.5%-7.5% in the medium term, emphasizing the importance of price stability in the economy.
The key driver behind this uptick in inflation was the mid-September announcement by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority regarding an increase in the prices of petrol, diesel, and kerosene. This development had a notable impact on the overall inflation landscape.
Fuel prices play a significant role in shaping inflation dynamics in Kenya, a nation heavily reliant on diesel for transportation, power generation, and agriculture. Additionally, kerosene is widely used in households for cooking and lighting, further amplifying the influence of fuel price fluctuations on the inflation rate.
While the September increase falls within the government’s medium-term target band, it underscores the sensitivity of Kenya’s inflation to external factors, particularly those related to energy prices.
As the nation navigates these economic waters, stakeholders will be keenly observing the impact of such fluctuations on consumer spending patterns, businesses, and overall economic growth. The delicate balance between economic stability and the need to address rising prices will undoubtedly remain a focal point for policymakers in the coming months.
Source: Reuters
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