Fuel prices surge across Africa — here are the hardest-hit countries
· The South African
Fuel prices vary drastically across the world, with oil-rich nations enjoying some of the cheapest petrol, while import-dependent countries, especially in Africa, continue to feel the squeeze.
Globally, countries like Libya, Iran and Venezuela rank among the cheapest fuel markets, with prices as low as a few cents per litre due to heavy subsidies and domestic production.
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At the other end of the spectrum are European and smaller economies such as Hong Kong and Malawi, where fuel prices exceed $2.80 per litre, placing them among the most expensive globally.
Against this global backdrop, the recent data shows that several African countries stand out for their high fuel costs.
Top 10 African countries with the highest fuel prices (March 2026)
CountryFuel price (USD)Global RankMalawi$2.8592ndCentral African Republic$1.86128thZimbabwe$1.71039thSenegal$1.63445thSierra Leone$1.62646thSeychelles$1.51555thBurkina Faso$1.51056thCameroon$1.48958thIvory Coast$1.45663rdBurundi$1.42265thGlobal contrast: Why some countries pay less
Countries with the cheapest fuel prices, such as Angola, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, benefit from strong oil production and government subsidies.
In many of these nations, fuel is deliberately kept cheap to support citizens and industries, even when global oil prices fluctuate.
Meanwhile, countries like Norway, France and Germany rank among the most expensive due to high taxes, environmental policies, and strong currencies.
Malawi leads Africa as fuel prices spike
At the top of the African list is Malawi, where fuel costs $2.859 per litre, making it one of the most expensive places in the world to fill up.
The country’s dependence on imports and persistent foreign currency shortages have pushed prices sharply higher, deepening the cost-of-living crisis.
The Central African Republic follows, where weak infrastructure and supply disruptions continue to inflate pump prices.
Zimbabwe among the hardest hit
In Zimbabwe, fuel prices have climbed to around $1.71 per litre, placing it among the most expensive markets on the continent.
Exchange rate instability, high import costs, and taxes continue to drive prices upward, with recent increases pushing Zimbabwe close to the top in Sub-Saharan Africa.
For ordinary citizens, this translates into higher transport fares, rising food prices, and increased pressure on household budgets.