Top 10 African Cities Most Affected by Rising Fuel Prices in 2025

Fuel prices are surging across Africa, straining urban centers the most. Here are the top 10 African cities hardest hit by 2025’s fuel price hikes.

In Summary 

• In cities like Harare and Nairobi, public transport costs have increased by over 100% due to fuel price hikes.
• In Dakar, the price of basic goods has risen by 40% since fuel costs directly impact transportation and logistics.
• While Nigeria removed fuel subsidies, Morocco still controls prices to limit inflation—but at a huge economic cost.

Deep Dive!!!

Fuel prices have skyrocketed across Africa in 2025, putting immense financial strain on urban populations. Transportation costs have doubled in some regions, businesses are facing higher operating expenses, and food prices are soaring due to increased logistics costs. While some governments have attempted to control fuel costs, others have struggled with economic instability, leading to inflation and reduced purchasing power

Certain cities have been affected more than others, particularly those where fuel plays a crucial role in daily activities. Here are the 10 African cities facing the most severe consequences of rising fuel prices in 2025.

10. Lagos, Nigeria

Nigeria is experiencing a severe economic ripple effect due to the rising fuel prices. Despite having one of the lowest fuel prices on this list at $0.56 per liter, the removal of subsidies in 2023 led to a drastic increase in transportation and living costs. In Lagos, public transport fares have tripled, forcing commuters to either pay significantly more or seek alternative travel methods. The high cost of diesel has also worsened the city’s energy crisis, as many businesses and households rely on generators due to unreliable electricity. Food prices have surged as suppliers factor in higher logistics expenses, making essentials increasingly unaffordable for low-income households.

9. Casablanca, Morocco

Fuel price increases in Casablanca have affected both individual consumers and businesses. Gasoline now costs $1.391 per liter, while diesel is priced at $1.303. Despite Morocco's efforts to control fuel prices through government regulations, inflation remains a significant issue. Taxi drivers and transport operators have raised fares, making daily commuting more expensive. Logistics companies are also facing challenges, as the rising cost of fuel has made it difficult to maintain competitive pricing. While the Moroccan government has introduced certain relief measures, the economic burden remains high, with many households struggling to keep up with the rising cost of goods and services.

8. Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi’s fuel prices have reached $1.36 per liter for gasoline and $1.285 for diesel, significantly affecting both public and private transportation. Matatu (public minibus) fares have increased by 60%, making daily commuting unaffordable for many workers and students. Rising transportation costs have had a direct impact on food prices, as suppliers struggle to absorb higher logistics expenses. Small businesses in Nairobi are also feeling the pressure, as operational costs continue to rise. Many residents are forced to adjust their spending habits, prioritizing only essential expenses while cutting down on discretionary spending.

7. Freetown, Sierra Leone

With diesel prices reaching $1.392 per liter, Freetown is facing one of its worst economic crises in recent years. Public transport fares have increased drastically, with some commuters now spending up to 40% of their income just to get to work. The rising cost of fuel has also affected the agricultural sector, making it more expensive to transport goods to urban markets. Food shortages are becoming more frequent, leading to price hikes on staple goods. Many small businesses are struggling to survive as operating costs become unsustainable, contributing to a rise in unemployment and economic hardship for many residents.

6. Dakar, Senegal

Dakar has seen fuel prices soar to $1.632 per liter, leading to widespread economic consequences. The cost of transporting food items has jumped by 35%, making essential goods like rice, vegetables, and fish more expensive for consumers. The fishing industry, a crucial part of Senegal’s economy, has been severely affected, as higher fuel costs make it difficult for fishermen to operate profitably. Inflation is at an all-time high, and many households are struggling to afford basic necessities. The government has attempted to introduce price controls on certain essential goods, but the overall economic strain remains severe.

5. Accra, Ghana

Fuel prices in Accra currently stand at $1.02 per liter, and while this is lower than in some other cities, the economic impact has been substantial. Transport fares have increased by 75%, affecting workers and students who rely on public transportation. Diesel shortages have further disrupted businesses, making it difficult for companies to manage transportation and production costs. Imported goods have become more expensive due to increased fuel costs for shipping and logistics, further worsening inflation. Many small business owners have raised their prices to keep up with rising costs, adding more pressure on consumers who are already facing financial strain.

4. Johannesburg, South Africa

In Johannesburg, fuel prices have reached $1.22 per liter, leading to a steady rise in the cost of living. Public transport fares have increased, making commuting more expensive for workers and students. The price of food has also climbed, as logistics companies pass on higher fuel costs to consumers. Although South Africa has a structured energy market, global oil price fluctuations and domestic taxation have made fuel increasingly expensive. Many middle-class households are feeling the strain, with disposable income shrinking as essential expenses take up a larger share of earnings.

3. Harare, Zimbabwe

Harare has some of the highest fuel prices in Africa, with gasoline costing $1.540 per liter and diesel at $1.530. The increase in fuel costs has led to a 40% rise in food inflation, making basic necessities unaffordable for many residents. Transport fares have doubled, with commuters struggling to afford daily travel. The economic challenges in Zimbabwe, combined with high fuel prices, have worsened poverty levels and made business operations more difficult. Many families are cutting back on expenses, and small businesses are closing down due to unsustainable costs.

2. Lilongwe, Malawi

Malawi’s capital has experienced significant fuel price hikes, with gasoline now priced at $1.459 per liter and diesel at $1.577. The rising cost of transportation has made commuting unaffordable for many residents. Currency instability has further exacerbated the crisis, making it difficult for the government to stabilize prices. Businesses that rely on fuel for operations have reduced their activities, leading to job losses and decreased economic productivity. The cost of imported goods has also surged, putting additional pressure on consumers who are already struggling with high inflation rates.

1. Bangui, Central African Republic

Bangui is currently the most affected city in Africa, with gasoline prices at $1.819 per liter and diesel at $2.125. These extreme fuel costs have led to a sharp increase in the price of transportation and essential goods. Many residents can no longer afford to commute to work, forcing them to seek alternative means of transport or reduce their daily movements. Food prices have skyrocketed as transportation costs for suppliers continue to rise. The economic impact has been devastating, with inflation making everyday survival a challenge. The situation has led to increased poverty levels, with many families struggling to afford basic necessities.