BREAKING: Government Increases Fuel Prices Nationwide

The Government of Sierra Leone has announced new pump prices for petrol and diesel, with the revised prices taking effect nationwide from Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Under the new pricing structure, petrol will now retail at NLe40.00 per litre, while diesel will sell at NLe45.00 per litre. The Ministry of Information and Civic Education said the adjustment follows continued increases in global petroleum prices, driven in part by the ongoing conflict involving Iran and its impact on international oil markets. According to the Ministry, the current pricing formula would have resulted in a full pass-through price of NLe41.04 per litre for petrol and NLe46.76 per litre for diesel. However, the Government said it will absorb the difference through subsidies to cushion consumers from the full impact of the international price increases. The announcement comes amid recent fuel supply challenges across the country, with several Oil Marketing Companies reportedly reducing or suspending sales at some filling stations. The situation has contributed to fuel shortages and long queues in recent days. The Government said the new pump prices are intended to help restore normal fuel supply and ensure the availability of petroleum products across the country. It also announced additional support to maintain existing Waka Fine public transport fares, assuring commuters that fares will not increase as a result of the new pump prices. According to the Government, it will cover the additional fuel costs associated with maintaining the current Waka Fine fares, thereby protecting commuters from an immediate increase in transportation costs. Meanwhile, the Government said it is accelerating measures to strengthen its role in the petroleum supply chain, including fuel importation, storage and wholesale supply. The measures, it said, are aimed at improving national fuel security, strengthening market stability and reducing Sierra Leone's vulnerability to future external supply disruptions and international price shocks. The new pump prices take immediate effect from September 8, 2026.