Emmanuel OchayiThe cost of fuel continues to rise in many African countries, affecting transportation, businesses, and household expenses. According to data from GlobalPetrolPrices, several African nations experienced significant fuel price increases in March 2025 due to global oil market changes, currency depreciation, and subsidy reductions.
The rising cost of fuel has led to higher inflation, increased production costs, and economic strain on households and businesses. Small businesses, which depend on fuel-powered generators due to unstable electricity supply, are particularly affected. As the global average fuel price reaches $1.26 per litre, several African nations now rank among the most expensive places to buy petrol.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelPrime Business Africa presents the full list of the 15 African countries with the highest fuel prices in March 2025.
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Top 15 African Countries With The Highest Fuel Prices In March 2025
1. Central African Republic – $1.819/ litre
The Central African Republic has the highest fuel prices in Africa, ranking 22nd globally. The high cost is mainly due to heavy import reliance and transportation difficulties.
2. Senegal – $1.632 per litre
Senegal ranks 36th globally in fuel prices. The increase in costs is linked to the depreciation of the CFA franc and a rise in import duties.
3. Zimbabwe – $1.540/ litre
Zimbabwe remains one of Africa’s most expensive places for fuel. With ongoing currency instability, the country struggles to maintain fuel affordability.
4. Malawi – $1.459/ litre
Malawi saw a price jump in March 2025, pushing it to 52nd place globally. The rising cost of fuel is impacting transportation and food prices.
5. Seychelles – $1.455/ litre
Despite being a small island nation, Seychelles faces high fuel costs due to import expenses and supply chain challenges, making it 53rd globally.
6. Ivory Coast – $1.443 / litre
Ivory Coast has experienced a steady rise in fuel prices, now ranking 56th globally. Reduced government subsidies have contributed to the increase.
7. Burkina Faso – $1.401/ litre
With fuel prices at $1.401 per litre, Burkina Faso ranks 59th worldwide. The increase is partly due to economic challenges and higher import costs.
8. Cape Verde – $1.397/ litre
Cape Verde’s location makes fuel importation costly. The island nation now ranks 60th globally in fuel prices.
9. Morocco – $1.391/ litre
Fuel prices in Morocco have risen significantly in recent months, affecting transportation and business operations. It now ranks 61st worldwide.
10. Cameroon – $1.389/ litre
Cameroon saw a price increase in March 2025, making it the 10th most expensive African country for fuel and 62nd globally.
11. Madagascar – $1.375/ litre
Madagascar faces rising fuel costs due to high import expenses. This impacts both businesses and household budgets.
12. South Africa – $1.360/ litre
South Africa continues to experience fluctuating fuel prices due to global oil trends and local taxation policies.
13. Ghana – $1.348/ litre
Ghana’s fuel prices remain high due to currency depreciation and rising import costs. This has led to increased transport fares.
14. Ethiopia – $1.330/ Litre
Ethiopia’s fuel prices are climbing, putting financial pressure on businesses and households. The country’s dependence on imports is a key factor.
15. Mozambique – $1.320/ litre
Mozambique has seen gradual fuel price increases, affecting economic stability and cost of living for its citizens.
Why Are Fuel Prices Rising in Africa?
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Several factors contribute to the increasing fuel prices across African countries:
- Global Oil Market Trends: The price of crude oil affects fuel costs, and recent global price increases have impacted African nations.
- Currency Depreciation: Many African currencies have weakened against the US dollar, making fuel imports more expensive.
- Reduced Government Subsidies: Some countries have reduced fuel subsidies, shifting the cost burden to consumers.
- Transport and Import Costs: Many African nations rely on imported fuel, and transportation expenses add to the final cost.
Economic Impact of High Fuel Prices
The rising cost of fuel has widespread economic effects across Africa:
- Increased Cost of Living: Higher fuel prices lead to increased costs for goods and services, reducing household purchasing power.
- Higher Transportation Costs: Public transport fares rise, affecting daily commuters and businesses that rely on transportation.
- Business Struggles: Many businesses, especially small enterprises, struggle with higher operational costs due to fuel price hikes.
- Inflation Growth: Expensive fuel contributes to inflation, making essential goods and services even more costly.
The rising fuel prices in Africa continue to impact economies, businesses, and individuals. Countries like the Central African Republic, Senegal, and Zimbabwe top the list of African countries with the highest fuel prices in March 2025. With fuel costs linked to global oil trends and local economic conditions, African nations face challenges in maintaining affordable energy prices.
Governments may need to explore policies such as fuel subsidies, tax reductions, or alternative energy sources to ease the financial burden on citizens.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
