Sierra Leone Government Announces Temporary Fuel Subsidy 

Freetown, April 2, 2026 – The Government of Sierra Leone has introduced a temporary fuel subsidy to protect citizens from the full impact of surging global fuel prices, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education announced today.

In a press release issued on Thursday, the government stated that it will not pass on the entire market-driven increase in fuel costs to consumers. Instead, it will subsidize petrol and diesel for a two-week period from April 2 to April 15, 2026.

According to the release, the full market price per litre, based on the current pricing formula, would have been Le36.10 for petrol and Le44.26for diesel. However, the agreed pump prices during the subsidy period will be fixed at:

– Petrol: Le35 per litre

– Diesel: Le40 per litre

This intervention means the government is subsidizing Le1.10 per litre on petrol and the full Le4.26 per litre on diesel.

The Ministry emphasized that the measure aims to ease the burden on households, businesses, transport operators, and the electricity sector, all of which are heavily affected by fuel price fluctuations.

“Government understands that increases in fuel prices affect transport, electricity, and the daily lives of citizens. We recognize the pressure this places on households and businesses,” the statement read.

The government and oil marketing companies have agreed to keep these subsidized prices fixed throughout the two-week period. The subsidy is described as a temporary measure while authorities engage development partners to explore broader options for additional relief should the global fuel situation persist.

The release also assured the public that the government is working closely with petroleum companies to ensure fuel remains available across the country and will continue to monitor the situation.

This latest announcement comes amid ongoing volatility in global energy markets, which has put pressure on many developing economies.

Citizens are advised to take advantage of the fixed prices during this window, while the government continues to keep the public informed of any further developments.

The temporary subsidy is expected to provide short-term relief to motorists, businesses, and households in Sierra Leone as global fuel prices continue to pose economic challenges.