Botswana: Government introduces fuel rationing from July 10 amid shortage

Event

President Mokgweetsi Masisi has announced that the government will introduce fuel rationing in Botswana from Friday, July 10, amid a continuing national shortage. Fuel purchases from filling stations will be limited to 250 pula (21.40 USD), although the restrictions will not apply to public transport operators or front-line government workers.

Further disruptions in fuel availability are likely in the near term, while there remains a possibility of protests at fuel stations over the shortages.

Context

Botswana has experienced several weeks of significant fuel shortages, with long queues being reported at fuel stations in Gaborone and business operations being disrupted by the limited availability. The country's fuel supply is usually imported by road from neighboring South Africa. However, the supply chain has suffered significant disruptions during the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, with reserves reduced to five days' supply from the typical 12. The government has attempted to diversify the fuel supply by importing shipments from Mozambique and Namibia but have struggled to replenish stocks.

Advice

Those in Botswana are advised to review their transport continuity plans in light of the fuel rationing and should be aware of the potential for localized disruption and protests around filling stations.