By Martha Karua | April 9, 2026
DODOMA, TANZANIA — President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced sweeping fuel-saving measures, dramatically reducing her official motorcade and directing government officials to use shared transport as the global energy crisis deepens.
The Tanzanian leader ordered that her convoy be cut down to just four vehicles, with the rest of her delegation required to travel in a single bus, signaling a shift toward austerity within government operations.
“I will have a maximum of four cars, and the rest of my delegation will be transported in one bus.”
The directive forms part of broader government efforts to curb fuel consumption and manage rising energy costs, as Tanzania faces mounting pressure from global supply disruptions. Officials who previously traveled in multiple vehicles will now be required to share transport to reduce fuel use and public expenditure.
The move comes amid a worsening global fuel crisis linked to tensions involving Iran, which have disrupted oil supply chains. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a key global oil transit route—has significantly reduced shipments, triggering sharp increases in fuel prices worldwide.
In Tanzania, the impact has already been felt, with notable rises in petrol, diesel, and kerosene prices. Authorities have urged both public institutions and citizens to adopt fuel-saving practices as the country braces for higher living costs.
Across Africa, governments are rolling out emergency interventions ranging from subsidies to rationing, highlighting the continent’s vulnerability due to its reliance on imported petroleum products.
Experts warn that if the conflict persists, the crisis could escalate further, driving up transport and food costs and placing additional strain on regional economies.
