Maniema oil companies are calling for a reduction in taxes on petroleum products between Kisangani and Kindu. In a move aimed at guaranteeing the supply of fuel to the town of Kindu and other localities in the province of Maniema, oil companies expressed their concern about excessively high taxes and the dilapidation of the roads.
Amadi Mugeni, president of the Association of Oil Tankers for the Development of Congo (APDCO), stressed that more than 80% of tankers refuel in Kisangani, in the neighboring province of Tshopo. However, due to the deplorable state of roads and taxes imposed by the state, the supply of fuel to Kindu is often disrupted, leading to fuel shortage in the area.
The appeal from Maniema oil companies therefore aims to raise awareness among provincial authorities and the State in order to find solutions to the problems that hinder the distribution of petroleum products. Road degradation is a major obstacle to the movement of petroleum products, with vehicles taking up to three months to connect Kisangani to Kindu, despite a distance of less than 500 kilometers.
In addition, the various taxes imposed by state services increase costs for oil companies, which translates into higher prices for consumers. Oil companies are therefore asking the State to reduce some of these taxes in order to allow them to reduce costs and offer petroleum products at affordable prices.
It is crucial to find rapid solutions to these problems to ensure a regular supply of fuel in the Maniema region. This involves repairing roads and reducing taxes to support oil tankers in their fuel supply mission.
In conclusion, the Maniema oil tankers’ appeal highlights the challenges they face in supplying fuel to the town of Kindu and other localities in the province. By reducing taxes and improving road conditions, it is possible to guarantee a regular supply of fuel and stimulate economic development in the region.