10 African Countries Face Record Petrol Prices Amid Global Supply Crisis in April 2026
Petrol prices across Africa surged in April 2026, driven by ongoing global supply disruptions stemming from the Iran war and the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. These geopolitical tensions have significantly tightened fuel availability, leading to increased costs for both petrol and diesel across the continent.
Rising Fuel Costs Across Africa
As of late April 2026, several African nations have reported some of the highest fuel prices globally, highlighting the vulnerability of economies reliant on imported oil. Countries such as Nigeria and South Africa have seen notable increases in petrol prices, which have in turn raised transport fares and energy costs, impacting households and businesses alike.
In Nigeria, fluctuations in ex-depot prices set by the Dangote Refinery, combined with international oil price volatility, have pushed petrol prices above N1,200 per litre in various states. This situation exacerbates the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, although Nigeria does not feature among the countries with the highest fuel prices.
Analysts emphasize that the current trend underscores the fragility of many African markets in the face of global oil price fluctuations. This has resulted in several nations being categorized among those with the highest fuel prices in Africa.
Malawi — N5,281 per litre
Malawi currently holds the title for the highest fuel costs on the continent, with petrol priced at MWK 6,672, approximately USD 3.83 (N5,281) per litre. This figure is over 200% higher than the global average, placing a severe financial strain on citizens, as a single tank of fuel can exceed 213% of the average monthly income.
Central African Republic (CAR) — N3,064 per litre
The Central African Republic ranks third with petrol prices at approximately USD 2.229 (N3,064) per litre. As a landlocked and politically unstable nation without refining capabilities, the CAR relies entirely on expensive overland imports of refined fuel.
Zimbabwe — N2,873 per litre
In late April 2026, Zimbabwe reported petrol prices around USD 2.08 (N2,873) per litre. This high cost poses a significant challenge to the local economy, where fuel prices frequently surpass the global average of USD 1.42 due to supply chain complexities and currency instability.
Sierra Leone — N2,794 per litre
Petrol prices in Sierra Leone reached SLL 35,000, roughly USD 1.78 (N2,794) per litre by the end of April. This marks a nearly 10% increase from the previous month, as the country struggles with rising costs associated with imported energy.
Botswana — N2,547 per litre
In Botswana, petrol prices have risen considerably, reflecting the nation’s vulnerability to international market fluctuations. The costs are influenced by the high expenses associated with importing refined petroleum and recent changes in regional pricing structures.
Lesotho — N2,536 per litre
Lesotho, similar to its neighbors, faces elevated fuel costs that significantly impact its domestic economy. The price of N2,536 per litre is largely driven by the country’s complete reliance on imports and the increasing costs of cross-border logistics.
South Africa — N2,379 per litre
By late April 2026, South African motorists were paying approximately N2,379 (ZAR 22.93) per litre for Octane-95 gasoline. This increase is attributed to a weakened rand and international crude oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Mali — N2,310 per litre
In Mali, the retail price for Octane-95 gasoline was recorded at 875 CFA Franc, or USD 1.56 (N2,310) per litre at the end of April. As a landlocked nation with a regulated fuel market, Mali remains highly sensitive to regional logistics costs and fluctuations in international oil prices.
Morocco — N2,301 per litre
Morocco is also among the top 10 African countries with the highest fuel prices. In April 2026, petrol prices reached MAD 15.49, equivalent to USD 1.67 (N2,301) per litre. This upward trend reflects a 27.7% increase since the start of the year, driven by global market pressures.
Seychelles — N2,195 per litre
As an island nation devoid of domestic oil production, Seychelles is particularly vulnerable to global energy price spikes. The price of N2,195 per litre reflects the high costs of maritime fuel transportation and the absence of subsidies to mitigate market fluctuations.
Zambia — N2,158 per litre
Zambia’s petrol prices reached approximately N2,158 per litre in April 2026, continuing an upward trend observed throughout the first quarter. These elevated costs are primarily influenced by international oil price movements and the ongoing depreciation of the local currency against the US dollar.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-05-01 15:55:00 • By the Editorial Desk
