Kenya's inflation rate declined to 4.14% in February, marking the lowest level in eight months, as falling food prices offset rising energy costs, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS).
The consumer price index showed a 0.82% monthly drop in overall inflation, with food commodities playing a central role in the decline. KNBS noted that several foodstuffs were significantly cheaper in February 2019 compared to the same period in 2018.
Maize grain prices fell 41% year-on-year to Sh35.63 per kilogram, while sifted maize flour, spinach, and tomatoes dropped 30.68%, 20.66%, and 16.63% respectively. However, energy costs surged, with 4kg of charcoal rising 66% to Sh141 due to a logging moratorium imposed in February 2018. Kerosene prices increased 25% to Sh97.3 per litre, affecting low-income households.
Non-food categories also saw price increases, including a 0.12% rise in housing and utilities costs. Electricity tariffs for 50Kwh and 200Kwh units climbed 2.48% and 1.70% respectively, contributing to overall inflationary pressures.
