Johannesburg – Affordable fuel prices continue to play a pivotal role in the economic stability and growth of several African nations. According to data from GlobalPetrolPrices.com, many oil-producing countries have managed to keep gasoline costs significantly low, alleviating transportation and production expenses across various sectors.
Top 10 countries with the cheapest rates in 2024
Libya, with gasoline priced at $0.031 per liter, benefits from vast oil reserves and heavy subsidies. The country produces approximately 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd), contributing to both domestic affordability and international exports despite ongoing political instability.
Similarly, Algeria leverages its state-managed energy sector to maintain low prices. With a production capacity of 1 million bpd and a GDP of $180 billion, the North African country secures its position as a key oil exporter while offering competitive domestic fuel rates.
In Angola, where gasoline costs $0.362 per liter, the government focuses on balancing energy subsidies with economic diversification. Angola’s output of around 1.1 million bpd has fueled steady economic growth, with the nation projected to grow by 4.1% in 2024.
Egypt, with a price of $0.403 per liter, enjoys a diversified energy portfolio that includes oil, gas, and renewables. This diversified strategy supports growth across multiple industries, boosting its GDP to $470 billion with a projected growth rate of 4.4%.
In Nigeria, the largest oil producer in Africa, fuel costs remain relatively low at $0.722 per liter, though challenges related to infrastructure and corruption continue to weigh on the economy. Nonetheless, the nation anticipates a 3.8% economic expansion this year.
Sudan, despite political unrest, has managed to maintain competitive fuel prices at $0.700 per liter. The low energy costs provide crucial support to sectors like agriculture and transportation, which are vital for local livelihoods and economic stability.
Tunisia and Gabon exemplify how energy strategies can stabilize economies. Tunisia’s diversified economy allows it to offer fuel at $0.824 per liter, while Gabon, with a price of $1.002 per liter, combines oil exports with sound fiscal management.
Liberia and Ghana, though net oil importers, have successfully implemented policies to control energy costs. Ghana, with gasoline priced at $1.033 per liter, has focused on energy reforms and infrastructure investment, helping it achieve a growth rate of 5.1% in 2024.
Affordable fuel prices are a crucial factor in promoting economic stability across Africa. They help lower transportation costs, stimulate business activity, and ensure accessibility to essential goods and services. As countries like Angola and Nigeria focus on diversifying their economies, their energy policies remain central to long-term growth.
The future for these nations hinges on maintaining this balance between affordable energy, economic diversification, and sustainable development. With ongoing efforts, many of these countries are poised to not only stabilize but also strengthen their positions in the global economy.