Amid rising global tensions and a surge in oil prices linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran, the Namibian government has moved swiftly to dispel social media rumours suggesting an imminent fuel shortage in the country.
In a firm ministerial statement dated Friday, 20 March, Executive Director in the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy (MIME), Moses Pakote, reassured the nation that Namibia’s fuel supply remains stable and sufficient. In the statement, Pakote “categorically” denied any shortage, confirming that adequate stocks of both diesel and petrol are available to meet national demand in the short, medium and long term.
“There is no fuel scarcity in Namibia,” the statement emphasised, adding that government has not introduced, nor is it considering any fuel rationing measures. Fuel retailers across the country have been urged to continue operating as normal, while the public is cautioned against spreading misinformation that could trigger unnecessary panic.
The reassurance comes at a time when global oil markets are under pressure. Brent crude prices have surged past US$100 per barrel due to geopolitical instability in the Middle East, fuelling concerns in import-dependent countries like Namibia. However, MIME has emphasised that the Namibia is well insulated against such shocks.
Central to this resilience is the National Oil Storage Facility (NOSF) at Walvis Bay, a strategic asset that underpins Namibia’s fuel security. With a storage capacity of 75 million litres and reserves that can last up to three months, the facility acts as a critical buffer against global supply disruptions.
According to Dr Victoria Nepembe, acting terminal manager of the NOSF, Namibia also requires fuel companies to maintain at least 30 days of additional reserves. She explained that while these strategic stocks are not designed to offset rising fuel prices, they are crucial in ensuring uninterrupted supply during periods of global uncertainty.
The NOSF operates as a neutral logistics hub, receiving and storing fuel before distributing it nationwide. Its role is complemented by the National Energy Fund, which helps cushion consumers from sharp price increases driven by global market volatility. As geopolitical tensions in Iran and eastern Europe continue to shape the global energy landscape, Namibian authorities maintain that the domestic fuel supply remains secure, stable and resilient. The ministry has also urged citizens to rather rely on verified information to avoid alarmist speculation.