EPRA Warns Kenyans Against Buying LPG From Unlicensed Dealers

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has urged Kenyans to buy liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders only from licensed dealers.

The regulator issued the warning on Thursday, August 27, as the government continues tightening controls in the LPG sector.

EPRA Urges Consumers to Check Dealers

EPRA said consumers can reduce safety risks by confirming that their preferred LPG dealer holds a valid licence.

The authority warned that unlicensed operators may fail to meet the safety and regulatory standards required in the LPG business.

EPRA also said customers should make licensing checks part of their routine whenever they purchase LPG.

The regulator argued that choosing authorised dealers promotes compliance and helps protect homes, businesses and surrounding communities.

Government Defends LPG Crackdown

The warning came a day after Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi defended the government’s enforcement campaign against illegal LPG activities.

Wandayi responded to criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who had raised concerns about the treatment of small-scale gas dealers.

The CS said the government launched the LPG National Growth Strategy to encourage wider use of LPG while improving safety within the industry.

He said the strategy also targets illegal refilling and illicit LPG trade, which authorities consider a threat to public safety.

Police Join Enforcement Operations

Wandayi said EPRA works with the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to enforce LPG regulations.

He explained that authorities document confiscated cylinders during enforcement operations before giving affected operators an opportunity to respond.

The government says the process helps ensure that enforcement actions follow the law.

LPG Tracking System Planned

The government also plans to introduce a central system for tracking LPG cylinders.

Wandayi said the system will help authorities monitor cylinder purchases and sales while improving accountability across the industry.

The 2025 regulations require LPG cylinders to carry serial numbers to make them easier to trace.

However, Wandayi clarified that procurement of the tracking system has not yet concluded.

For consumers, EPRA’s latest message remains straightforward: verify that an LPG dealer holds a valid licence before buying a cylinder.

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