DAR ES SALAAM: Samia Suluhu Hassan has ordered immediate fuel-saving measures across government and urged calm, as a widening global oil supply shock linked to Middle East tensions pushes up prices and fuels uncertainty across global markets.
Speaking at State House in Chamwino on Wednesday, the president said escalating frictions involving the United States, Israel and Iran had disrupted key energy supply chains, contributing to volatility in global oil prices and raising costs for both advanced and developing economies.
While acknowledging growing pressure, she said Tanzania remained relatively insulated compared with some regional peers, with domestic fuel prices still lower than in several neighbouring countries. However, she cautioned that no country would be immune if global instability persists.
“Public institutions must lead by example in reducing fuel use,” she said, announcing measures including scaling back official vehicle convoys and introducing shared transport arrangements for government officials.
She also warned businesses against raising prices on existing stock, calling for fairness and restraint in the marketplace as the cost of imports rises.
“Goods already in storage should not be used to justify price increases,” she said.
Energy analysts say disruptions around major maritime chokepoints, particularly the Strait of Hormuz — through which a significant share of the world’s oil supply passes — have heightened market uncertainty. Even short-term instability in such routes can trigger sharp price increases and ripple effects across global supply chains.
Although the president pointed to tentative signs of easing pressure along some routes, she stressed that the situation remains fragile and heavily dependent on geopolitical developments.
The knock-on effects of higher fuel prices are already being felt globally, feeding into transport, food and production costs. For developing economies, the risk is particularly acute, as rising energy costs can quickly translate into broader cost-of-living pressures and inflation.
Across Africa and Asia, governments have begun responding with a mix of policy measures, including subsidies, price controls and fiscal adjustments aimed at cushioning households and stabilising domestic markets.
Tanzania reassures public on fuel supplies amid global market disruptions
Tanzania’s approach, centred on austerity and consumption control, reflects a growing consensus that governments must balance fiscal discipline with social protection in the face of external shocks.
“These are international developments affecting many countries,” Samia said. “We continue to call for peace and stability so that global trade, including the movement of oil and essential goods, can return to normal.”
The president’s remarks also come at a time when global energy markets remain highly sensitive to geopolitical developments, with traders closely watching any signs of escalation or de-escalation in the Middle East.
Analysts say sustained disruption could keep prices elevated for an extended period, placing additional strain on economies that rely heavily on imported fuel.
At the same ceremony, Samia swore in new senior officials, including Palamagamba Kabudi as Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, underscoring the need for experienced leadership as the country navigates both domestic priorities and global economic headwinds.
Additional appointments included deputy ministers tasked with strengthening government efficiency and coordination during a period of heightened uncertainty.
As global energy markets remain volatile, Tanzania’s response highlights the importance of prudent management, institutional coordination and public cooperation in mitigating the impact of external shocks.
