5 Food Items Set for Price Increases This Month - CBK Survey 

Kenyans are expected to spend more on major food and household items, including cooking oil and wheat flour, according to a survey by the CBK.

According to the survey released in June 2026, which was conducted among agricultural sector stakeholders, sugar, maize flour, and rice are also among the products expected to register price increases from June.

Farmers who participated in the May survey attributed the expected increase in prices to rising transportation costs following the recent fuel price adjustment by EPRA.

"Expectations for price increases were more pronounced with respect to the sampled food commodities in the core Consumer Price Index (CPI), largely driven by respondents’ concerns about the observed and expected adverse impact of the escalation of the US-Israel-Iran war," the report stated in part.

"The war affected global supply chains and particularly the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20 per cent of global oil products are shipped, triggering sharp increases in global oil prices."

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Currently, a three-litre container of cooking oil retails at between Ksh800 and Ksh950, depending on the brand and supermarket.

A 2kg packet of wheat flour retails at between Ksh158 and Ksh190, depending on the brand.

Meanwhile, a 2kg packet of maize flour costs between Ksh150 and Ksh210 across various supermarkets, while a 2kg packet of sugar averages about Ksh305.

On the other hand, the prices of some food items, particularly vegetables, are expected to decline due to increased supply.

Among the items expected to become cheaper are sukuma wiki, spinach, and traditional vegetables.

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"For instance, prices of fresh vegetables such as spinach, kales (sukuma wiki), traditional vegetables, and unpacketed cow milk were expected to decrease one month ahead, supported by the expected increase in market supply following the favourable March-May 2026 rainy season across most parts of the country," the report added.

Tips for shopping during food price increases

• Take advantage of expected price declines in vegetables. Incorporating more seasonal vegetables into meals.
• Compare prices across supermarkets and local retailers. Small price differences on frequently purchased items can result in meaningful savings over time.
• Consider buying non-perishable items in bulk when discounts are available. This can help cushion your household against future price increases.
• Adjust your monthly budget early. Households that anticipate higher food and transport costs are often better positioned to avoid financial strain than those that react after prices have already increased.
• Avoid impulse purchases that can quickly inflate your grocery bill.