Fuel prices are rising in South Sudan’s Jonglei and Lakes states as shortages spread beyond the capital Juba.
Abraham Chol, Secretary of the Traders Union in Bor, capital of Jonglei, told Radio Tamazuj that the issue of fuel is a “big problem” in his town.
“Most of our fuel stations in Bor were destroyed during the crisis when rebels captured Bor and we were getting fuel from Juba in drums,” he said. “Since there is no fuel in Juba and our only supply route was Juba and we don’t have fuel now.”
Chol said 20 litres of petrol cost 300 SSP while 20 litres of diesel is at 250 SSP.
No diesel in Rumbek
Lakes State Chamber of Commerce Chairperson Dok Malou also reported price increases in Rumbek.
Malou said they have run out of diesel after not receiving shipments from Juba.
He said a dollar shortage exacerbates the problem as neighboring countries selling fuel do not accept SSP.
Price rises in Juba
As of Monday, the price of petrol in Juba was at 70 SSP per litre, up from 25 SSP just three days ago for the same amount according to bodaboda motorcycle drivers in KonyoKonyo Market who asked to remain anonymous.
The drivers said 20 litres of petrol cost 450 SSP on the black market, while diesel cost 250 SSP per 20 litres.
When asked by Radio Tamazuj about the situation, most managers of fuel stations in Juba declined to comment citing fear of arrest by security agents. However, one manager divulged he had not received fuel for two months because authorities have yet to shortlist his establishment for permission to purchase fuel.
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