Cape Town: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned that the growing conflict in the Middle East is beginning to strain supply chains across Africa and could push up energy prices on the continent.
Speaking at the Africa Energy Indaba conference in Cape Town on Tuesday, Ramaphosa said the widening tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States are already affecting global trade routes and energy markets. He said African countries, many of which depend heavily on imported fuel and goods, are particularly vulnerable to such disruptions.
According to Ramaphosa, the instability in the Middle East has raised concerns about the safety of shipping through key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important channels for global oil transport. Any disruption in this area could slow down shipments and increase transport costs.
The conflict has already caused oil prices to rise in global markets, which may increase fuel costs for many African economies. Higher energy prices could also push up the cost of transporting goods across the continent.
Ramaphosa noted that Africa has experienced similar challenges in recent years during the COVID 19 pandemic and the Russia Ukraine war. Those crises exposed weaknesses in global supply networks and led to shortages and higher prices for essential goods.
Experts say that shipping companies are becoming cautious about operating in the Middle East because of security concerns. Some vessels are delaying their journeys while others are choosing longer routes, including sailing around the Cape of Good Hope in southern Africa. These changes increase travel time and raise freight costs.
Economic analysts warn that if the conflict continues to expand, the impact could spread further across Africa, affecting trade, inflation and food prices. Countries that rely on imports for fuel, food and industrial goods may face the strongest pressure.
Ramaphosa called for diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East. He said stability in global energy markets and trade routes is important for protecting African economies from further shocks.