‘Don’t panic’: South African govt urges calm, says fuel cargo still passing through Hormuz
South Africa’s government has tried to calm growing public anxiety over a potential fuel shortage, saying shipments bound for the country are still moving through the Strait of Hormuz despite the war involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe told lawmakers in the National Assembly that South Africa’s supply arrangements remain solid even as global markets react to heightened risks around Middle East shipping routes.
“There should be no panic in South Africa; panic kills,” Mantashe said, insisting that vessels carrying cargo for South Africa have not faced interruptions or threats while transiting the strait.
His comments came as MPs pressed the government on whether the country is prepared for sustained disruptions.
Mantashe acknowledged that while supply may still be flowing, South Africa cannot escape price pressures if global oil costs continue rising. With the next fuel price adjustment expected soon, he said motorists should brace for the possibility of higher pump prices driven by events beyond Pretoria’s control.
He argued that South Africa’s long-term protection against recurring oil shocks would require developing domestic petroleum resources. “The only way is to drill, drill, drill and produce our own petroleum,” he said.
Mantashe said, government will keep monitoring shipping and supply conditions while engaging partners, including through the BRICS bloc.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
