GAMBIA & SENEGAL HIT BY FUEL PRICE HIKES

Written by: Seringe ST Touray

Fuel prices have shot up again in The Gambia, with diesel hitting D120 per litre, petrol D109.80 and kerosene D112.64 under new pump rates taking effect today, September 1st.

The government attributes the increase primarily to the “continued rise in international crude oil and refined petroleum product prices,” largely linked to conflict and instability in the Middle East.

The Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines acknowledges “the burden that higher fuel prices may place on households, businesses and transport operators,” but announced no specific relief measures.

It says the government will continue monitoring the international oil market and “take appropriate measures” under the country’s petroleum pricing framework.

Neighbouring Senegal has also raised fuel prices, with new rates introduced on August 15th. Petrol rose from 920 CFA to 990 CFA per litre, while diesel jumped from 680 CFA to 755 CFA.

Senegal similarly attributed the hike to rising international petroleum prices linked to the conflict in the Middle East. However, its government says it continues to subsidise fuel to limit the cost passed on to consumers.