Fuel prices go up in April

WINDHOEK, 27 MAR (NAMPA) – Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Modestus Amutse has announced a rise in fuel pump prices for April, citing sharp increases in global oil prices and a weakened Namibia Dollar as the main drivers.
Government has approved an increase of N.dollars 2.50 per litre for petrol and N.dollars 4.00 per litre for all diesel grades effective 01 April 2026.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Government Information Centre (GIC) here on Friday, Amutse highlighted the surge in international crude oil and refined fuel prices in March due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
He said that concerns over potential supply disruptions, particularly around key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, also pushed up freight and insurance costs.
Amutse noted that the average international price of 95 octane petrol rose by 56.9 per cent from February to N.dollars 2 143.83 (US.dollars 124.92) per barrel, while diesel increased by more than 122 per cent to roughly N.dollars 3 380.84 (US.dollars 197) per barrel during the review period.
At the same time, the Namibia Dollar weakened to an average of N.dollars 16.62 against the US Dollar.
“These factors resulted in substantial under recoveries of N.dollars 6.02 per litre for petrol and over N.dollars 12 per litre for diesel,” said Amutse, leading to the increase.
Amutse noted that to cushion consumers, Cabinet has resolved to temporarily reduce fuel levies by 50 per cent for three months effective 01 April, while the National Energy Fund will absorb approximately N.dollars 500 million in remaining under recoveries.
He reassured the nation that despite global turmoil, Namibia faces “no risk” of fuel shortages. The country’s supply chain remains stable, supported by coordinated import schedules, adequate storage facilities and regular stock monitoring.
“The risk we are managing is price‑related, not availability‑related,” said Amutse.
He also urged the public to avoid panic buying, unnecessary hording, and warned against illegal fuel resale, emphasising that storing fuel in unsafe conditions poses serious hazards.
“The government remains committed to ensuring a secure, stable and affordable fuel supply for all Namibians,” said Amutse, noting that authorities will continue monitoring global developments and implementing measures to protect consumers.
(NAMPA)
ANI/PS/EK