The Government has assured citizens that it continues to take strong measures to ensure fuel remains available across the country, despite ongoing global economic pressures and disruptions in the international oil market.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba said the priority of the Government is to protect citizens from fuel shortages and unstable prices, which in some countries have already led to severe scarcity of the product.
He made the remarks in Parliament in Dodoma while responding to a question from Special Seats Member of Parliament Janeth Mahawanga, who sought clarification on government preparedness in addressing the impact of global conflicts on fuel supply.
Dr. Nchemba explained that Tanzania has so far managed to avoid fuel shortages due to early planning and coordinated interventions by the Government and stakeholders in the energy sector.
He emphasized that ensuring availability of fuel remains the top priority.
“The first step the Government has taken is to ensure that this product does not become scarce. There are countries where fuel is already unavailable in the market, meaning even if you have money, you cannot get it,” said the Prime Minister.
He further said the Government is working on introducing subsidies aimed at cushioning citizens from rising fuel costs triggered by geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, which continue to affect global supply chains.
According to him, these measures are intended to stabilize prices and protect ordinary citizens as well as key economic sectors such as transport, agriculture, and industry.
In addition, the Government has engaged transport stakeholders to discuss practical ways of reducing operational costs, with the aim of preventing unnecessary increases in transport fares that could affect the cost of living.
Dr. Nchemba noted that some outdated operational requirements have already been reviewed to improve efficiency and reduce costs for transport operators.
“For example, there was a requirement for regional buses to pass through every bus terminal. We have agreed that there is no need for buses to stop at every station,” he said.
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to continue monitoring global developments closely while taking timely measures to ensure fuel stability, protect citizens’ welfare, and support economic growth.
