Gasoline prices soar in Kalemie as stations close over tax dispute

The city of Kalemie in the Tanganyika province of the Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing a severe fuel crisis, with gasoline prices skyrocketing and numerous gas stations closed.

On Sunday, August 23, 2026, resellers were selling gasoline between 12,500 and 15,000 Congolese francs per liter, equivalent to approximately $5.70 USD. This is a stark increase from the previous price of around 4,000 francs per liter at the pump. The crisis stems from a strike initiated by gas station owners who are protesting what they describe as a substantial revision and increase of the conventional tax.

Local sources indicate that the tax, previously 6 million Congolese francs, has reportedly jumped to 25 million francs. In solidarity with the affected stations, other gas stations across the city have also shut down their operations since Friday. The Directorate General of Revenue of Tanganyika (DGRTANG) has sealed several stations for non-payment of this tax.

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They have closed their gas stations, and we buy a liter of gasoline for 10,000 francs. How can I transport a client with this fuel price and still manage the payment to the owner, the gasoline, and household expenses? It creates complications with customers.

The immediate consequence for residents is a dramatic rise in public transportation costs, which have tripled or even quadrupled depending on the route. A motorcycle taxi driver shared the difficulties, stating, "They have closed their gas stations, and we buy a liter of gasoline for 10,000 francs. How can I transport a client with this fuel price and still manage the payment to the owner, the gasoline, and household expenses? It creates complications with customers."

Nathan Mugisho, president of the Umoja ni Nguvu association in Tanganyika, has appealed to the authorities for intervention. He urged the government and oil operators to find common ground to resolve the crisis. "They should call the economic operators, and consequently the oil companies, and listen to their demands so that they open the stations and the population can have transport at an acceptable cost," Mugisho stated. He added that the high fuel prices are also making it difficult for food supplies to enter Kalemie, causing further hardship for the population.

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They should call the economic operators, and consequently the oil companies, and listen to their demands so that they open the stations and the population can have transport at an acceptable cost. But otherwise, it is suffering because even food supplies to enter Kalemie are becoming difficult.