Central Africa Blames Fuel Shortage on Supply Disruptions, Smuggling

A driver carrying empty plastic containers pauses on his way to buy fuel from Angola and sell it back in Muanda, western Democratic Republic of Congo, Dec. 23, 2023.

Central Africa has, for months, been plagued with acute fuel shortages that have stifled regional economic growth, disrupted local businesses, and contributed to rising food prices and social unrest. The shortages are partly blamed on increased demand coupled with disruptions in supply, and on illegal trade in conflict zones.