A vessel carrying gasoline, jet fuel, and petroleum is set to dock Wednesday, ending a 15-day shortage that halted transportation and fishing.
A ship carrying gasoline, jet fuel, and petroleum is scheduled to arrive Wednesday around 10 a.m., according to Minister of State for Economy and Finance Gareth Guadalupe. The arrival is expected to replenish stocks that have been depleted for over 15 days, significantly impacting taxi drivers, fishermen, and motorcyclists who have been unable to work.
Minister Guadalupe acknowledged the hardship caused by the shortage, stating that governing involves making difficult decisions. He assured that the incoming fuel supply is sufficient to last until next year. The government, led by Américo Ramos, faces public discontent over the fuel crisis, but Guadalupe confirmed a strategy is in place to prevent future shortages.
The government's strategy includes reducing diesel imports, a primary source for electricity generation. Diesel costs currently account for over 50% of import expenses due to the nation's reliance on it for power. Minister Guadalupe expressed confidence that by the end of 2026, São Tomé and Príncipe will begin generating solar energy to further decrease diesel dependency.
Why it mattersTaxi drivers, fishermen, and motorcyclists are affected by the fuel shortage, which prevents them from working and earning income.
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