African governments have been urged to stop treating energy crises as unexpected events. Instead, they should prepare for repeated disruptions that could affect economies, businesses and households.
A Semafor analysis published on September 7 says the latest crisis around the Strait of Hormuz has exposed Africa’s vulnerability to global energy shocks.
While wealthier countries can use strategic reserves and emergency supplies, many African countries have fewer options. The disruption has already pushed up fuel costs and affected economic activity across the continent.
According to the report, diesel prices in Lagos have nearly doubled. Fishing vessels in Maputo have stopped operating, while construction projects in Addis Ababa have stalled. Some workers have also had to stay home.
The crisis has highlighted the risks facing African economies that depend heavily on imported fuel or lack reliable energy infrastructure.
The Semafor analysis says the Hormuz disruption should not be seen as a rare event. Instead, it offers another warning that energy shocks could become a recurring risk for African economies.
The impact goes beyond fuel prices. Higher energy costs can increase transport and production costs. They can also push up inflation and put more pressure on governments with limited funds.
The challenge is more serious in countries with weak electricity systems and limited access to reliable energy.
Nigeria remains an important energy producer but still faces major challenges in providing reliable electricity to households and businesses.
About 600 million people across Africa still lack access to electricity, according to Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe. He has described the continent’s energy deficit as a growing global security concern.
The report says African governments need to prepare for future disruptions instead of waiting for crises before taking action.
That could include expanding domestic energy production and improving electricity infrastructure. Governments could also develop renewable energy sources and strengthen emergency fuel and energy policies.
Africa has significant oil and gas reserves and enormous solar potential. However, investment and infrastructure gaps continue to limit the continent’s ability to fully use these resources.
Nigeria is also seeking to position itself as a more reliable energy supplier.
International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol said last week that Nigeria could potentially double energy investment within five years following its new associate membership of the IEA.
The Strait of Hormuz crisis may eventually ease, but its impact offers a wider lesson for Africa.
Energy disruptions can quickly affect local economies through higher fuel prices and rising transport costs. They can also weaken industrial production and increase pressure on consumers.
African governments may therefore need to shift their focus from simply responding to energy crises to building systems that can withstand them.
The message from the Semafor analysis is clear: energy shocks should no longer be treated as surprises. African economies must plan for them as a long-term risk.
