South Africa Fuel Prices Jump 14% to Near Record Highs

African outlets describe South Africa and Nigeria as caught between rising global oil prices and domestic pressure to keep fuel affordable. South Africa is allowing sharp petrol hikes while subsidising diesel, and Nigeria faces similar price pressure with limited fiscal room. Commentators expect higher transport and food costs, more strain on low‑income households, and renewed debate over fuel subsidies and tax relief.

• •South Africa’s roughly 14% petrol price hike from 6 May 2026 will feed directly into higher transport and food prices.
• •The South African government is using diesel subsidies to shield freight and agriculture while passing more costs to private motorists.
• •Nigeria’s fuel prices are rising because soaring global crude prices increase import and subsidy bills.
• •Higher fuel costs in South Africa have already led motorists to cut fuel consumption by about 35% in a single month.
• •African governments risk either higher inflation or wider budget deficits depending on how far they subsidise fuel.