Fuel shortage in Lubumbashi, DRC: The consequences of a lack of communication
For several days, the city of Lubumbashi, capital of the Haut-Katanga province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been facing a fuel shortage. This situation has led to endless queues in front of closed gas stations and the use of informal fuel sellers, nicknamed “Gaddafi”, who sell at exorbitant prices.
According to sources close to the matter, this shortage is due to the hardening of fuel distributors, who have decided to observe a strike to protest against the non-compliance with financial commitments made by the government. The oil companies claim to suffer enormous losses and a significant loss of income, not reimbursed by the State.
The strike by fuel distributors led to the closure of gas stations, leaving motorists destitute and forced to turn to informal sellers. The latter are taking advantage of the situation to set exorbitant prices, which can reach between 23,000 and 25,000 Congolese francs (CDF) for a 5-liter can of fuel.
The pump attendants, when questioned about the situation, affirm that they are waiting for the signal from the oil tankers to resume their activity, but remain firm in their position as long as the government does not honor its financial commitments. The oil companies have also sent a strike notice to the Ministry of the Economy since October 18, announcing a stoppage of fuel distribution in the following 48 hours.
The main demands of the oil companies concern the partial non-payment promised by the government at a meeting on September 30, as well as the need to revise the prices of petroleum products taking into account the increase in the parameters of the price structure.
While waiting for the government to honor its financial commitments, the fuel shortage in Lubumbashi continues to affect the daily lives of residents. Public transport prices have doubled, forcing Lushois to pay more for their travel.
This situation highlights the importance of clear and transparent communication between the government and stakeholders in the oil sector. Trust between the two parties is essential to guarantee a regular supply of fuel and avoid shortage crises. It is therefore urgent that measures be taken to resolve this situation and ensure a stable supply of fuel to Lubumbashi and the southern zone of the DRC.
NADINE FULA