Fuel remains one of the most essential commodities across Africa. 

Yet, the continent sees some of the widest variations in petrol and diesel prices.

In this article, we provide an up-to-date, country-by-country comparison of fuel prices across Africa.

Key takeaways

• Petrol and diesel prices vary widely. Libya has the lowest gasoline price ($0.028 per liter), while in the Central African Republic, gasoline is the most expensive at $1,889 per liter. 
• Subsidies remain the biggest divider. Oil-rich states keep pump prices low, while others pay global market rates plus taxes and transport costs.

Data for this insight is gathered from the global online tracker, Global Petrol Prices, recorded on Monday, September 15, 2025. 

Petrol and diesel fuel prices in Africa by country

The role of subsidies in low-gasoline-price nations

Data from the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) indicate that fuel subsidies between January and November 2024 totaled 12.8 billion Libyan dinars, making it one of the largest allocations of government revenue to date.

In the same year, Libya’s eastern-based government agreed on a proposal to end fuel subsidies and prepared a mechanism to implement the agreement.

Angola, a major oil exporter, continues to offer competitive fuel pricing. 

However, recent subsidy reforms have led to price increases, reflecting the government’s efforts to reduce public spending and redirect funds toward other sectors.

Egypt’s fuel prices remain relatively low due to partial subsidies and a growing refining sector. 

Meanwhile, despite recent subsidy reforms that have increased prices, Nigeria remains one of the more affordable markets in the region. 

The country’s oil wealth and local refining capacity help stabilize fuel costs, though challenges persist in the sector.

Driving factors in high-fuel-price nations 

Despite being rich in natural resources, the Central African Republic has the highest fuel prices in Africa, at approximately $1.88 per liter. 

• The country lacks a strong refining capacity and relies heavily on costly imports. 
• Political instability further complicates supply chains, pushing up pump prices. 

These challenges ripple across the economy, with rising transport costs and soaring commodity prices weighing heavily on citizens.

Fuel in Senegal currently costs around $1.78 per liter. The spike is linked to two main issues: reduced government subsidies and a volatile national currency. 

Although efforts are being made to modernise the energy sector, households and businesses continue to struggle with higher transport fares and increased costs for imported goods. 

Zimbabweans pay about $1.55 per litre for fuel, among the steepest rates on the continent. 

The situation is worsened by the country’s fragile currency, runaway inflation, and complete dependence on imported petroleum products (bought in scarce foreign currency).