NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 7 – Vivo Energy Kenya, the official distributor of Shell V-Power, has refuted allegations of selling substandard fuel, asserting that its products undergo rigorous testing before they reach consumers.
Vivo Energy Managing Director Peter Murungi, in an address to the press, took issue with the growing concerns sparked by a viral social media video questioning the quality of Shell V-Power fuel sold at some service stations.
Murungi emphasized that the company consistently exceeds the minimum product quality standards set by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
“Every consignment of fuel that reaches the country has consistently passed our rigorous tests. We exceed the minimum requirements in product quality and comply with all regulations,” Murungi asserted.
“We stand by the quality of our fuel.”
The controversy was fueled by a video circulating online showing a device used to allegedly test fuel quality.
Murungi criticized the use of this gadget, clarifying that it is not designed to test fuel but is intended for more basic substances, such as ethanol.
He stressed that any legitimate fuel testing must be carried out in certified laboratories that utilize proper methodologies and equipment to guarantee the fuel’s quality.
In response to the viral claims, Vivo Energy Kenya commissioned an independent test to validate the quality of Shell V-Power.
The test, conducted by Intertek Testing Services, confirmed that Shell V-Power in Kenya fully met the required Research Octane Number (RON) of 95, a key indicator of fuel quality.
Results from various service stations, including Limuru Road, Woodridge, and Lavington, showed RON levels ranging from 95.9 to 96.1, all exceeding the required standard.
The company also launched an internal investigation into the matter, particularly after the video prompted questions regarding the quality of fuel at specific stations.
Despite the allegations, Vivo Energy reaffirmed that Shell V-Power adheres to international quality standards.
