Fuel prices across Africa are a stark reminder of the continent's economic disparities. While some countries pay a premium for every liter, others enjoy rock-bottom prices. According to GlobalPetrolPrices, the Central African Republic tops the charts with fuel costing $1.718 per liter, followed by Senegal at $1.546 and Zimbabwe at $1.480 per liter. However, on the other end of the spectrum, oil-rich nations such as Algeria, Libya, and Angola boast some of the lowest fuel prices in the world.

In these countries, the high fuel cost has a ripple effect on their economies, inflating transportation costs, food prices, and overall living expenses, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable populations. The absence of domestic oil production often forces reliance on imports, leaving them vulnerable to global market volatility and currency fluctuations. These challenges frequently exacerbate already fragile economies, turning even minor increases in fuel prices into significant burdens for households and businesses alike.

In contrast, oil-rich nations rely on government subsidies to keep fuel affordable, easing transportation and energy costs for their citizens. Libya, for example, has some of the world's lowest fuel prices due to extensive state subsidies that insulate its population from the full cost of production and distribution. Similarly, Angola, a leading oil producer, maintains relatively low fuel prices despite its economic difficulties. The government's control over the fuel market and investment in domestic refining capacity help stabilize costs, offering some relief to its citizens amidst broader economic challenges.

Below are the top 10 African countries with the lowest fuel prices at the start of 2025, according to GlobalPetrolPrices:

Rank 1: Libya - $0.030 per liter

Rank 2: Angola - $0.328 per liter

Rank 3: Egypt - $0.337 per liter

Rank 4: Algeria - $0.338 per liter

Rank 5: Sudan - $0.700 per liter

Rank 6: Nigeria - $0.764 per liter

Rank 7: Tunisia - $0.782 per liter

Rank 8: Ethiopia - $0.804 per liter

Rank 9: Liberia - $0.843 per liter

Rank 10: Gabon - $0.929 per liter

The stark contrast in fuel prices across Africa highlights the need for economic diversification and investment in domestic energy production. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, African countries must adapt to ensure energy security and affordability for their citizens. The divide in fuel prices serves as a reminder of the complex challenges facing the continent, and the need for sustainable solutions to bridge the gap.

For more insights into Africa's energy landscape, explore our previous coverage on the top 10 African countries with the highest diesel prices at the start of 2025, as well as the top 10 African countries with the largest oil reserves in 2024.