Title: Demonstration of motorcycle taxi drivers in Goma: the price of fuel at the heart of concerns
Introduction :
A demonstration took place this Monday in Goma, in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Motorcycle taxi drivers have expressed their dissatisfaction with the increase in the price of fuel at the pump. Faced with this situation, the police intervened to disperse the demonstrators, using tear gas and warning shots. This demonstration highlights an urgent problem to be solved: the impact of soaring fuel prices on transportation and the local economy.
The consequences of the increase in fuel prices:
The spectacular rise in fuel prices in Goma has had direct repercussions on motorcycle taxi drivers. A liter of fuel, which was sold at 3,500 FC last week, is now offered between 6,000 and 7,000 FC by informal resellers, also known as “Gaddafi”. This significant increase has led to an increase in transport costs, making mobility more difficult for Goma residents.
The difficulties of local oil companies:
This difficult situation also affects gas stations in the region. Most of them had to close due to lack of stock. Local oil companies say high prices on the international market and the fluctuating exchange rate have made their activities unprofitable. Many stations went bankrupt or changed owners to survive. The situation is so worrying that even the little remaining fuel is reserved for defense and security forces.
Waiting for a new price list:
The government promised the publication of a new price list for petroleum products during a meeting held at the end of September in Lubumbashi. However, this promise has yet to materialize, adding to the frustrations of local oil companies. Providence Muhiga, president of the North Kivu oil tankers association (APENOKI), deplores the lack of follow-up to this resolution and underlines the urgency of taking measures to stabilize fuel prices.
Conclusion :
The demonstration by motorcycle taxi drivers in Goma to denounce the rise in fuel prices highlights the difficulties encountered by residents of the region. This situation directly impacts their daily lives, making transport more expensive and limiting their mobility. Local oil tankers are also facing major challenges, with many stations closing and difficulty obtaining fuel. It is essential that the government acts quickly by publishing a new price list and taking measures to stabilize fuel prices, in order to relieve the residents of Goma and support the local economy.