CAR Authorities Temporarily Seize Tamoil Stations Amid Fuel Crisis
The Central African Republic (CAR) government has announced the temporary takeover of six Tamoil service stations out of eleven in Bangui.
These stations will be under management for 45 days to ensure consistent fuel supply, salary payments, and tax contributions, according to Minister of Energy Development and Hydraulic Resources, Arthur Bertrand Piri.
Previously, Piri fined Tamoil 200 million CFA francs (approximately 300,000 euros) for failing to maintain fuel supplies.
In response, Tamoil defended itself, citing exclusive import rights held by Cameroonian company Neptune since September.
Recent gasoline shortages have affected former Total stations and competitors, with private companies struggling to secure enough fuel due to limited stocks and inadequate supplies from Douala.
Despite ongoing disputes following the acquisition of Total’s operations, Tamoil’s owner, Rochefort & Associates, remains committed, focusing on reopening provincial stations and resuming airport activities.
CAR has been grappling with fuel shortages for over a month, with Bangui bearing the brunt. Long queues of vehicles at service stations hope for fuel, with most stations closed, and those open running out of fuel by around 10 am local time. Prices per liter have soared from 2,000 to 3,000 francs.
Street vendors are compelled to seek fuel from neighboring Congo, reselling it at inflated prices. The economic repercussions are already evident, raising concerns nationwide.