Fuel shortage in Lubumbashi, DRC: a crisis that paralyzes the city
For almost four days, the city of Lubumbashi, capital of the Haut-Katanga province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been facing a serious fuel shortage crisis. This situation is the result of the interruption of distribution by oil operators, who complain about various tax demands.
Currently, only the Engen station is trying as best it can to serve the population, but the quantities available are very limited. Most other gas stations remained closed, worsening the supply crisis.
Faced with this alarming situation, the Deputy Prime Minister in charge of the Economy, Vital Kamerhe, and the Minister of Hydrocarbons, Didier Budimbu, went there to try to resolve this crisis. Accompanied by their respective teams, they will meet oil sector operators to examine their demands and find viable solutions.
The demands of oil operators relate in particular to the depreciation of the Congolese franc, the increase in the price of a barrel of oil, as well as the non-compliance with commitments made by the government to support economic operators. These commitments include the payment of arrears of losses and shortfalls.
This situation of fuel shortage has numerous repercussions on the daily life of the inhabitants of Lubumbashi. The prices of public transport trips have already increased, from 500 to 1000 CDF (Congolese Franc) and from 1000 to 1500 CDF. Queues at the few operational gas stations are getting longer and longer, and many motorists are choosing to leave their vehicles at home. Some turn to small local traders, commonly known as “Gaddafi”, but have to pay high prices to obtain fuel.
It is urgent that concrete measures be taken to resolve this fuel shortage crisis in Lubumbashi. The population faces daily difficulties, and it is time for the government to take effective measures to support oil operators and guarantee a regular supply of fuel to the city.
Sources:
– Article link: https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/09/30/penurie-de-carburants-a-lubumbashi-la-situation-se-degrade/
– Article link: https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/09/30/lubumbashi-face-a-la-penurie-de-carburant-le-politique-se-mobilise/