30 Dec 2024 | 03:40 PM UTC
Guinea: Fuel disruptions likely in Conakry through at least early January
Fuel shortages likely in Conakry, Guinea, through at least early January amid supply issues. Possible protests, clashes.
Due to supply challenges, fuel shortages will likely persist in Conakry through at least early January. The National Oil Company (Societe Nationale des Petroles, SONAP) announced that a maritime fuel resupply vessel did not arrive in Port Conakry late Dec. 29 due to inclement weather conditions. SONAP further announced that no gasoline off-loading will occur on Dec. 30. The shortage could possibly be resolved in the coming days. Several fuel stations in the city have experienced long queues.
Fuel shortages may disrupt business operations, public and private transport services, and ground shipping. Locals may demonstrate outside government offices or fuel stations to denounce the scarcity. Authorities will likely deploy security personnel to monitor any protests that materialize. If fuel shortages remain prolonged, clashes between demonstrators and security services are possible.
Refuel vehicles when possible. If long-distance travel is unavoidable, ensure fuel tanks are full and carry additional supplies. Do not buy fuel on the black market or from an unauthorized dealer. Ensure adequate fuel supplies for generators; confirm delivery agreements. Avoid any related protest activity that materializes, as clashes can occur with little to no warning.
Guinea has faced persistent fuel distribution challenges following the Kaloum fuel depot explosion in December 2023. The primary fuel terminal, associated with the Guinean Petroleum Company (Societe Guineenne des Petroles, SGP), resulted in a national scarcity of gasoline and diesel and increased black-market fuel sales. The incident killed at least 24 people and injured over 450 others.
