GAROUA, Cameroon – A fuel shortage and exorbitant fuel prices have been crippling northern Cameroon, disrupting transportation and people’s day-to-day activities throughout the region. As reported by locals in Garoua, most gas stations have already run out of gasoline, leaving them heavily reliant on the black market for fuel.
The resulting fuel crisis has led to the emergence of a black market dealing in a locally known product called ‘Zouazoua’. Although this contraband fuel comes mainly from Nigeria, it has become very expensive lately. According to street sellers, the price of this smuggled fuel has risen to around $1.34 from a few months ago.
“Whereas a jerrycan that cost $14.28 can now be had at $39.28,” Oubaaba, an entrepreneur of gasoline in Garoua, stated.
The transport industry has suffered greatly, especially motorbike taxis, which are the lifeblood of urban transportation. The drivers are finding it increasingly hard to sustain themselves as operating expenses have increased threefold.
“Previously, it was possible to work throughout the day with $3.57 worth of petrol; now we are forced to use $10.71 worth to continue at the same rate,” said Adamou Abdou, one of the motorbike taxi drivers. “That really impacts us in terms of earning our living and taking care of our loved ones.”
Citizens believe that roads have become increasingly deserted because people cannot afford transport services owing to rising prices, making it hard for the region to develop economically.
Experts argue that the current situation reflects the world’s vulnerability. Interruptions at vital transport centres, such as the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of oil production passes, continue to disrupt the chain, especially in northern Cameroon.
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