Africa’s Fuel Crisis Deepens as Iran’s Hormuz Blockade Sends Petrol Prices Soaring Across the Continent

JOHANNESBURG / NAIROBI / LAGOS | April 2, 2026 | Breaking News

The economic shockwaves from the U.S.-Iran war have arrived on African shores with devastating force. Iran’s ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for about 20% of the world’s oil and gas, has caused severe fuel shortages and record price hikes from South Africa to Kenya and Nigeria. Africa imports most of its refined petroleum and is among the regions hardest hit by the global energy crisis.

South Africa applied its April fuel price hike this week, raising petrol by R3.06 per litre and diesel by up to R7.51 per litre. The government cut a temporary R3 per litre levy to ease the impact, but economists warn the relief is short-lived if the Strait of Hormuz stays closed.

In Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria, reports show severe shortages and long queues at gas stations, as local distributors struggle to secure enough supply at affordable prices.

Brent crude briefly rose above $107 per barrel earlier this week before easing on hopes of a diplomatic deal. Prices rebounded after Trump’s address failed to give a clear timeline for reopening the Strait. The warned that global oil supplies will be hit harder in April, with jet fuel and diesel shortages threatening aviation and road transport worldwide

The timing hits African governments hard. Strong 2026 growth was expected from exports, reforms, and rising consumption. The IMF predicted Africa would lead in economies growing 6% or more. Now, soaring energy costs and returning inflation put that optimism to the test.

Regional leaders and finance ministers are holding emergency talks on joint energy plans. African nations face pressure to diversify, boost local refining, and strengthen Gulf and North Sea ties. South Africa’s Coca-Cola pledged R17.6 billion through 2030, but the short-term energy crunch threatens recent economic gains