Minister of Trade and Industry Prudence Sebahizi has warned that rising prices in Rwanda could intensify, describing the current situation as only the beginning of a broader economic impact driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking during a media briefing, Sebahizi said global price shocks—particularly on fuel and imported goods—are expected to persist, noting that the duration of the conflict remains uncertain. He urged Rwandans to take proactive measures to cushion the economy by reducing consumption, especially of imported products.
He explained that Rwanda’s delayed exposure to the crisis was due to earlier imports and strategic reserves, including fuel stocks, which temporarily shielded the domestic market. While global prices began rising in March, government interventions helped slow the immediate impact locally.
However, Sebahizi stressed that sustaining this buffer will require collective responsibility. He called on citizens to cut down on unnecessary travel, adopt public transport, and use available resources more efficiently to ease pressure on fuel demand.
He also cautioned that heavy reliance on imports continues to strain the economy, as it drives foreign currency outflows unless offset by exports.
Despite the expected increase in fuel prices, the minister assured that Rwanda will maintain supply, citing alternative sourcing strategies, including imports from India, though at higher logistical costs.
Fuel consumption recently spiked to 3.1 million litres per day, up from the usual 2 to 2.5 million litres, partly due to cross-border demand.
Sebahizi warned that failure to curb consumption could lead to stricter measures, including fuel rationing.
