Relief in February as diesel, kerosene prices fall sharply

By Polycarp Machira , The Guardian
Published at 10:10 AM Feb 05 2026
Relief in February as diesel,   kerosene prices fall sharply
Photo: File
Relief in February as diesel, kerosene prices fall sharply

MOTORISTS are set to enjoy lower fuel costs this month, offering a much-needed break for drivers, transport operators, and households as the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) yesterday announced the lower regulated prices which take effect immediately.

Diesel and kerosene prices have dropped, meaning cheaper trips for commuters, reduced transport costs for businesses, and lighter household expenses for families relying on fuel for cooking and lighting.

A statement issued by EWURA Director General, Dr James Mwainyekule, diesel prices have fallen sharply depending on the port of import. Diesel received at Dar es Salaam dropped by 90/- per litre, at Tanga by 25/-, and at Mtwara by 24/- compared to January 2026.

Kerosene prices also fell by 17/- in Dar es Salaam, 14/- in Tanga, and 93/- in Mtwara. These reductions are expected to ease daily expenses for citizens and lower operating costs for businesses that rely heavily on fuel.

For February, retail petrol prices are 2,788/- per litre in Dar es Salaam, 2,849/- in Tanga and 2,881/- in Mtwara. Diesel prices are 2,701/-, 2,762/-, and 2,807/- per litre in Dar es Salaam, Tanga, and Mtwara, respectively. Kerosene will cost 2,881/- in Dar es Salaam, 2,794/- in Tanga, and 2,838/- in Mtwara.

The cost of importing fuel showed mixed trends. At Dar es Salaam port, petrol imports increased by 1.88 percent and kerosene by 1.65 percent while diesel costs fell by 5.10 percent. 

At Tanga port, both petrol and diesel imports dropped by 1.62 percent, and at Mtwara, petrol costs fell by 9.24 percent. The average cost of foreign currency conversion rose by 1.86 percent, slightly affecting overall fuel import costs.

EWURA has reminded fuel retailers to issue proper receipts to customers, showing the station name, date, type of fuel, and price per litre. “All fuel stations must also display prices clearly on visible boards. Failure to comply is a serious offense under Tanzanian law, and offenders will face strict penalties”, said Mwainyekule.

With these new prices, Tanzanians across urban and peri-urban areas are expected to feel immediate relief in transport and household fuel expenses, making February a more affordable month for many.