In many African nations, fuel is far more than a commodity—it’s a critical lifeline. It powers homes, drives businesses, keeps transportation systems moving, and fuels agricultural operations. As such, fluctuations in fuel prices have wide-reaching effects, influencing everything from household budgets to national economies.
Despite a slight drop in the global average fuel price—from $1.26 per liter in March to $1.25 in April 2025—several African countries continue to see an upward trend in local fuel costs. According to data from GlobalPetrolPrices, this persistent rise is putting additional strain on both consumers and businesses across the continent.
Fuel prices are not just an economic concern—they come with political and social implications. For countries already grappling with inflation and economic instability, rising fuel costs exacerbate the burden. Transportation costs shoot up, leading to higher food and commodity prices. This inflationary ripple effect reduces purchasing power and impacts daily life for millions.
In some instances, fuel hikes have sparked protests, particularly when triggered by subsidy removals or currency devaluation. Citizens often perceive fuel prices as a reflection of government performance—especially when there’s a lack of social programs to cushion the impact.
Amid these complexities, here’s a look at the top 10 African countries with the highest fuel prices in April 2025:
🔝 Top 10 African Countries by Fuel Price (2025)
| Rank | Country | Fuel Price (USD/Liter) | Global Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Central African Republic | $1.837 | 21st |
| 2 | Senegal | $1.653 | 33rd |
| 3 | Zimbabwe | $1.653 | 45th |
| 4 | Malawi | $1.458 | 52nd |
| 5 | Ivory Coast | $1.428 | 55th |
| 6 | Burkina Faso | $1.419 | 56th |
| 7 | Cameroon | $1.403 | 57th |
| 8 | Seychelles | $1.402 | 59th |
| 9 | Sierra Leone | $1.387 | 61st |
| 10 | Guinea | $1.386 | 62nd |
This month’s list saw some notable shifts. Central African Republic held on to its spot as the most expensive African country for gasoline. Senegal, Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, and Cameroon all experienced price increases, while Malawi, Ivory Coast, and Seychelles saw modest reductions.
Guinea and Sierra Leone made their debut on the top 10 list this April, replacing Morocco and Cape Verde, which saw slight declines in fuel prices.
As we move further into 2025, the trend in fuel pricing across Africa will be closely watched—not just by economists, but by everyday citizens whose livelihoods hang in the balance.
