CAPE TOWN, Mar 26 – Several African countries, including South Africa, Kenya and Uganda, have assured citizens of adequate fuel supply despite growing concerns over global shortages triggered by the Iran war.
Authorities across the continent have warned against panic buying and hoarding, even as countries in Asia move to ration fuel and restrict exports in response to tightening global markets.
Kenya reported holding 102 million litres of gasoline, with an additional 330 million litres expected to arrive. South Africa also confirmed it has sufficient strategic fuel reserves, while Uganda said its supply position remains stable with further deliveries on the way.
Africa, which produces about 7% of the world’s crude oil but has limited refining capacity, is increasingly turning to alternative supply channels. These include government-to-government agreements and purchases from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Nigeria, which has ramped up exports following its move to full production capacity.
The situation contrasts sharply with countries such as the Philippines, which has declared a national energy emergency, while China, South Korea and Thailand have introduced export restrictions to manage domestic supply.
Kenya’s Ministry of Energy and Petroleum raised concerns about oil marketing companies engaging in speculative stockpiling, warning that hoarding in anticipation of price increases could disrupt market stability.
Meanwhile, Uganda expects to receive significant new fuel shipments, including gasoline, diesel and jet fuel, as it reroutes supply chains to avoid the disrupted Strait of Hormuz, where tanker traffic has slowed sharply.
The developments highlight a shifting energy landscape in Africa, with regional supply chains and local refining capacity playing an increasingly critical role in maintaining fuel security amid global geopolitical uncertainty.
