Burundi: Nationwide fuel shortage continues

Event

Burundi continues to face a serious gasoline shortage due to the lack of foreign currency to import fuel, with fuel rationing beginning on May 16. Media sources reported on Tuesday, May 30, that many stations have gone dry, particularly in the capital city of Bujumbura. The shortage has strained the economy by causing food prices to increase by approximately 30 percent. Gasoline prices on the black market have also sharply increased, with fuel now going for USD 3 to 4 per liter (5000 to 7000 Burundi francs), versus the official price of USD 1.30 (2200 Burundi francs).  Rising fuel and food prices may cause an increase in economic migration, with 400,000 people having already left Burundi due to poor economic conditions.

Anti-corruption organizations claim that the shortage has become worse due to the central bank providing the majority of dollar reserves to the Burundian company Interpetrol Trading Limited. As a result, other foreign companies have been pushed out of the market, making Interpetrol the sole oil importer in the country.

Context

Due to a deep political and economic crisis, which has affected the country for two years, the Burundian franc is generally not accepted outside the country and there is little if any inflow of US dollars, depriving gasoline importers of the currency they require to import adequate supplies.

On a more general note, political violence persists throughout Burundi in the aftermath of the country's contested July 2015 elections. A number of political opposition parties, human rights organizations, and international NGOs have voiced concerns over the continuation of political violence against the opposition in recent months; security forces and members of the youth wing of the ruling party, the Imbonerakure, are accused of targeting opponents in violent attacks. While the country appears to be experiencing a period of relative calm (certainly in comparison to the violent outbreaks seen throughout 2015 and 2016) the situation remains worrisome, particularly in Bujumbura, where the risk of politically motivated outbreaks of violence remains.

Advice

Individuals present in Burundi are advised to fill up their vehicles whenever gasoline is available, to ensure sufficient fuel reserves before all long journeys, and to expect longer waiting times at gas stations.

More generally, individuals in Burundi - especially in Bujumbura - are advised to remain vigilant and to adhere to all instructions issued by the authorities. Travelers should avoid traveling by foot after nightfall, to only keep small amounts of cash on hand, and if driving, to park in a secured parking lot close to their destination. Drive with windows closed, doors locked, and with all valuables hidden from sight. Keep your phone charged and with you at all times.