CS for Energy and Petroleum Opiyo Wandayi…Photo/IP
NAIROBI, Kenya (IP)
A fuel safety scare is unfolding after the Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) alleged petrol sold locally may contain toxic compounds linked to serious health risks.
COFEK says two lab tests on separate samples revealed elevated halogen-based elements, raising concern over possible traces of ethylene dibromide — a once-common fuel additive now widely restricted.
The watchdog did not detail sample custody but insists the findings merit urgent, independent verification.
“This raises significant public health concerns if confirmed,” COFEK said.
Ethylene dibromide is associated with liver damage, digestive complications, kidney impairment and reproductive harm, and is classified as a probable human carcinogen.
Its presence in modern fuel would violate accepted safety standards.
Pressure is mounting on regulators, including the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority and the Kenya Bureau of Standards, both mandated to enforce fuel quality.
Neither has issued a detailed response confirming or disputing the claims.
If verified, risks could arise through inhaling fuel vapors, vehicle emissions or direct handling — with urban populations especially exposed.
COFEK is calling for nationwide testing, public disclosure of results and accountability where breaches are found.
Industry players have yet to respond, deepening uncertainty in a sector vital to the economy.
For now, the claims remain unverified — but the demand for clarity is intensifying: what exactly is flowing through Kenya’s fuel system?
